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,

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Exploring Basque Poetry: Romanticism and 19th Century Poets

1. Introduction

This exploration delves into the fascinating world of Basque poetry, focusing on the influence of Romanticism and the contributions of prominent 19th-century poets.

4. Characteristics of Romanticism

Romanticism, a literary movement that emphasized emotion, intuition, and individualism, played a significant role in shaping Basque poetry. Key features include:

  • Rejection of Enlightenment ideals and emphasis on subjectivity.
  • Focus on individual experiences, emotions, and imagination.
  • Idealization
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Renaixença: A Comparative Analysis of the Catalan and Valencian Literary Revivals

Renaixença: A Comparative Analysis

The Valencian Renaixença

In 1859, Mariano Aguiló, a prominent figure from Mallorca, arrived in Valencia and encouraged young writers like Teodor Llorente and law students to embrace the Catalan language. They organized the Floral Games of Valencia, held at the University Auditorium. These games were revived in 1879 with the establishment of Lo Rat Penat, a society founded by writer Constantí Llombart. Unlike the games in Barcelona, the Valencian Floral Games

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Latin American Literature: From Asturias to the Boom

Miguel Angel Asturias

Asturias’s work explores two key themes:

  1. Socio-political concerns
  2. Exploration of Latin American folklore and myths

Mr. President

  • Published in 1946
  • Critiques the Guatemalan dictatorship of Estrada Cabrera
  • Employs the grotesque technique, distorting reality and exaggerating its features
  • Utilizes popular myths, black humor, dreams, and various text types
  • Presents a distorted and often cruel vision of reality

Miguel’s Literary Originality

Asturias’s unique approach to realism delves into

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Victorian Poetry and Pre-Raphaelite Art

Victorian Poetry II: Eminent Victorian Women

Key Issues:

  • Isolation of women in domestic life
  • Women as artists (challenges and prejudices)
  • Approaches to spiritual issues and religion
  • Uses of metaphors

Emily Brontë (1818-1848) – Stars:

Brontë, known for her shyness and unorthodox religious convictions, finds solace in the stars. The night sky offers calmness, peace, and a sense of belonging, contrasting with the oppressive and violent sun that symbolizes the constraints of daytime life for women.

Elizabeth

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The Day of Resurrection and Judgment

40. It is not for the sun to overtake the moon, nor does the night outstrip the day. They all float, each in an orbit.

41. And an Ayah (sign) for them is that We bore their offspring in the laden ship [of Nuh (Noah)].

42. And We have created for them of the like thereunto, so on them they ride.

43. And if We will, We shall drown them, and there will be no shout (or helper) for them (to hear their cry for help) nor will they be saved.

44. Unless it be a mercy from Us, and as an enjoyment for a while.

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