Catalan Literary Renaissance: Modernism and Realism (1833-1911)
Catalan Literary Renaissance (1833-1877)
The Renaissance period (1833-1877) witnessed a surge in Catalan literary production, driven by a burgeoning nationalist consciousness among the bourgeoisie. This movement aimed to revive and refine the Catalan language.
Caterina Albert (1869-1966)
Caterina Albert, writing under the pseudonym Víctor Català, was a prominent figure of this era. Hailing from a wealthy landowning family, she defied societal expectations by pursuing a literary career. Her works, characterized by their exploration of loneliness and societal constraints, influenced generations of Catalan authors.
Narcís Oller (1846-1930)
Narcís Oller, a lawyer and writer, is considered the foremost representative of Catalan realist novels. Initially writing in Spanish, he later transitioned to Catalan, influenced by European literary trends. His notable works include La papallona, L’escanyapobres, and Pilar Prim.
Joan Maragall (1860-1911)
Born into a family with a textile business, Joan Maragall pursued law but ultimately dedicated himself to journalism and literature. His poetry collections, such as Poesies and Visions & Cants, explored themes of nature, spirituality, and the human condition.
Modernist Narrative
The crisis of positivism and realist narratives paved the way for Modernist narrative, drawing inspiration from French symbolist and decadent traditions. Modernist authors emphasized emotions and symbolism, exploring the struggle between individuals and the world around them.
Modernist Poetry and Social Context
The late 19th century saw economic crisis and the rise of the Catalan labor movement. The Tragic Week of 1909, a major social revolt with anti-militarist and anti-clerical sentiments, marked a turning point in Catalan society.
Modernisme: Two Periods
Modernisme can be understood as both an attitude and a process. The movement spanned two distinct periods:
First Period (1892-1900)
- Combative and radical, with anarchist influences.
- Key publications: L’Avenç and Catalònia.
- Influenced by Nietzsche’s vitalism and individualism.
Second Period (1900-1911)
- Less aggressive, with greater acceptance by the bourgeoisie.
- Focus on aesthetics and literary production.
- Representative publication: Joventut.
The death of Joan Maragall in 1911 marked the end of the Modernist movement, coinciding with the emergence of Noucentisme.