Spanish Literature: Poetry, Theater, and Narrative (1950-1990)
Spanish Poetry: 1950s and Beyond
1950s: Social Poetry
In the 1950s, poetry transitioned from individual existential concerns to expressing political protest and collective anguish. The language became simpler and more direct, aiming to reach a wider audience. Key figures include:
- Blas de Otero: Pido la paz y la palabra (I Ask for Peace and the Word), Ángel fieramente humano (Angel Fiercely Human), Redoble de conciencia (Roll of Conscience)
- Gabriel Celaya: Cantos Iberos (Iberian Songs)
- José Agustín
Post-Boom Literature: Characteristics and Narrative
Key Features of Post-Boom Literature
Another feature of post-boom literature that sets it apart from the boom is its tendency towards the *intrascendente*. This difference can be seen clearly in the kinds of characters chosen as protagonists. The boom writers focused on exceptional people with excessive obsessions. In contrast, the protagonists of the post-boom are recruited from the transient populations of Latin American cities.
Post-boom literature predominantly portrays urban life, and it incorporates
Read MoreLiterary Movements: Realism to 21st Century
European Realism
French:
- Stendhal (*The Red and the Black*)
- Balzac (*The Human Comedy*)
- Flaubert (*Madame Bovary*)
English:
- Dickens (*A Christmas Carol*, *Oliver Twist*, *A Tale of Two Cities*)
Spanish Realism
Juan Valera: (*Pepita Jimenez*, *Juanita*)
Clarín:
A Zamora law professor, writer, and regular essayist, he wrote short stories, literary criticism, and novels.
- *The Ruler*: Recreates a plot in Spanish society whose values have degenerated (Vetusta). Themes include adultery, social class criticism,
El Cid, Mester de Clerecía, and Celestina: Key Spanish Literature
El Cid: A Hero’s Journey
Cid: This epic poem focuses on the final years of Rodrigo Diaz de Vivar, El Cid Campeador. The primary source is a fourteenth-century manuscript missing its initial sheet and two interior pages. Another copy from 1207 identifies Per Abbat as the author. The poem portrays the Cid as a model of moderation, prudence, and balance.
The Story of Honor and Shame
The narrative revolves around two central themes: honor and dishonor. Falsely accused, El Cid is banished from Alfonso VI’
Read MoreFlight to Terror: A Pilot’s Drug Trafficking Ordeal
Characters
- Tony: A young commercial pilot living in Miami, Florida.
- José González: The leader of a drug cartel.
- Luis: Works for José.
- Roberto: Works for José.
- Fernando: Roberto’s brother, who also works for José.
- Carmen: The sister of José’s girlfriend, Rosa.
- Manuel: Works for José in Peru.
Story Setting and Summary
The story is set in three different countries: The United States, Colombia and Peru. The main character, Tony, is in constant danger as he gets involved with drug traffickers in Colombia,
Read MoreAqueduct of Segovia & Augustus of Prima Porta: Roman Heritage
Aqueduct of Segovia
The aqueduct begins about 16 km from Segovia, carrying water to the city. It is 728m long, with a minimum height of 7m and a maximum of 29m.
Elements of Support
The pillars and arches are built with large granite boulders without mortar, except for the part where water is piped.
Outer Space
The visible part is divided into two sections: one with 78 arches that gradually increase in height, and another with 44 superimposed double arches. The upper arches are the same height, while
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