Key Movements in Spanish Literature: Espronceda to the Present
Espronceda’s Poetic Production
Lyric Poems
These poems deal with various issues, such as the defense of the marginalized (e.g., The Pirate Song, The Beggar) or his political ideals of youth. They often express lamentation for loss. Espronceda’s poetic style is a reflection of his passionate temperament, characterized by rhythmic verse, sonorous language, violent contrasts, and surprising innovations.
Narrative Poems
Two of Espronceda’s narrative poems are extensive: The Student of Salamanca and The
Read MoreMedieval Spanish Literary Traditions and Key Authors
Medieval Literature: Key Characteristics
Transition and Language
- Transition from archaic language to more developed forms.
- Coexistence of oral and popular literature with literature for educated nobles.
Dominant Themes and Context
- Strong religious influence.
- Literature often rooted in village life and popular traditions.
- Theocentric worldview: God as the center of existence.
- Didactic purpose: Literary genres often aimed to teach moral lessons.
Major Literary Genres of the Medieval Period
Poetry
- Lyrical Poetry:
Postwar Spanish Literature and Theater Development
Historical Context of Spanish Literature and Theater (1939 Onwards)
Historical circumstances significantly influenced the development of drama and poetry since the Civil War. This period was marked by strong repression during the postwar years (often referred to as the ‘Primroses’ era), followed by some opening up in the late 1950s and especially the 1960s, and finally the arrival of democracy in the 1970s.
In the late 1960s, two international events had repercussions in Europe: May ’68 and the so-
Read MoreThe Spanish Essay: 20th Century Literary Evolution
The Spanish Essay: Origin, Characteristics, and Precursors
The essay, a genre whose name derives from the French essayist of the late sixteenth century, Michel de Montaigne, is the most appropriate form for the expression of humanistic thought and currently enjoys widespread relevance. It is a highly varied genre, covering topics of general interest non-exhaustively and without aiming for systematic or scientific rigor. Its treatment may be more or less subjective, often with an informative and speculative
Read MoreContemporary Spanish Poetry and Theater: Key Movements
Poetry of the Generation of ’68: The Novísimos
In the mid-1960s, a youth group emerged with the aim of innovating the world of poetry, characterized by aestheticism and culturalism. The publication in 1970 of the anthology Novísimos Spanish Poetry by José María Castellet confirmed a new poetic group proposing a change in the aesthetic trends of the moment. The main characteristic of this group, born after the Civil War, is a clear break with previous traditions. Other features include:
- Rejection
Literary Journey of Spain’s Generation of ’27
Stages of the Generation of ’27
It is difficult to separate the stages, but until the Civil War, three distinct periods can be observed:
Stage of Youth (until 1925)
During this period, some poets, like Gerardo Diego, were already known, while others were just beginning, seeking their own poetic style.
Late 1920s
All poets (with the exception of Miguel Hernández) had published important books and emerged as a generation of young poets. This is best seen with the integrating impulse of the ’27 poets.
1930s
Some