Evolution and Characteristics of the Generation of ’27
Poetic Path of the Generation of ’27: Stages of its Evolution
Stage 1: To 1928: Purism and the Vanguard
This initial stage is marked by a fusion of avant-garde and popular styles, blending innovation with tradition. Early influences include Bécquer and the early avant-garde movements of Ultraism and Creationism.
The defining characteristic of this “pure” art is the metaphor, though it’s used with restraint to avoid dehumanization. The influence of classical forms, particularly the Gongorine style,
Read More20th Century Valencian Poetry: A Literary Renaissance
Poetry and the 20s and 30s
These years represent a rich and complex period in Valencian literature, marked by a flourishing of publishing networks and magazines, the emergence of modern critics, and growing international recognition. From a literary perspective, this era is characterized by a desire for innovation and engagement with the international context. Surrealism and post-symbolist poetry thrived during this time.
Three Historical Periods:
Dictatorship of Primo de Rivera (1923-1930):
Catalonia’
Read MoreThe Tragicomedy of Love and Fortune
Characters
Social Dynamics
From a social standpoint, two worlds coexist in tragicomedy: the aristocracy and the common people. Both worlds intermingle, and among them stands the figure of Celestina. Money, interest, and pleasure further entwine these two groups. The supremacy of material values over spiritual values reflects a society in crisis.
Psychological Depth
The characters possess a psychological depth not previously seen in literary works. Fernando de Rojas presents characters endowed with
Read More15th-Century Spanish Theater: La Celestina
Theater in the Fifteenth Century: La Celestina
Introduction
Fifteenth-century theater inherited the vitality of popular medieval theater and its religious legacy. However, authors began experimenting with secular subjects, poetic language, and a wider variety of characters. Two distinct currents emerged:
Religious Drama
This genre continued to explore the life of Jesus. The leading figure was Gómez Manrique, author of Representaciones / On the Birth of the Lord.
Secular Theater
This genre included elements
Read MoreMagical Realism and Sociopolitical Upheaval in Isabel Allende’s “The House of the Spirits”
The House of the Spirits: A Chilean Saga
Sociopolitical Context
The House of the Spirits reflects Chile’s tumultuous 20th-century history, particularly the two decades preceding the 1973 Pinochet coup. The narrative leading up to Salvador Allende’s 1970 victory is divided into two sections:
- The world of workers and peasants: Represented by the Three Marias, this world depicts illiterate individuals reliant on strong, sometimes brutal, leadership (Esteban Trueba). Fear of “love” prevents rebellion,
Post-War Catalan Narrative: From Franco to the 21st Century
1. The Sociopolitical Context of Post-War Catalan Narrative (1939-1970)
The political landscape after the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939) significantly impacted Catalan literature. The Franco regime aimed to suppress Catalan culture and language, promoting linguistic unification under Castilian Spanish.
Franco’s Policies:
- Censorship and suppression of Catalan language and culture.
- Promotion of Castilian Spanish as the sole national language.
- Exile of Catalan intellectuals and writers.
Impact on Literature: