The History of Spanish Literature
The Minstrels
The minstrels were true professional actors who toured towns, courts, castles, religious festivals, and roads reciting or singing poems. The minstrel’s job was called Master of Minstrelsy. The most numerous minstrels recounted the exploits of local heroes and were called minstrels of Deeds.
3.1: Lyrical Forms and Themes of the Renaissance. Garcilaso de la Vega
What sets the lyrical keys of the 16th century apart is the arrival of Petrarchism, a new model of lyrics that transformed the
Read MoreThe History and Evolution of Peninsular Theater
The Origins of Peninsular Theater
The Medieval Theater
Castilian dramatic text is the oldest surviving Order of the Magi, dating back to the middle of the 12th century.
It contains monologues of the three kings meeting, their visit to Herod, the king’s monologue, and a discussion among the sages of the court.
Renaissance Theater
Religious Drama
The use of allegory becomes relevant, influencing the auto sacramental of Baroque theater.
Italianate Theater
In this dramatic orientation, Eclogues stand out.
Classical
Read MoreSpanish Romanticism (1800-1850): Society, Culture & Literature
The Nineteenth Century (1800-1850)
Society & Culture
The transition from the eighteenth to the nineteenth century coincided with the French Revolution, whose final exaltation did not appease the spirits in Europe.
Ferdinand VII’s absolutist policies hindered the cultural and economic development of Spain, despite the opening of the Museo del Prado and the rise of the bourgeoisie.
Romanticism
Romantic ideas originated in Germany in the late eighteenth century.
Goethe’s work initiated this movement,
Read MoreGalician Literature in Exile: Poetry, Narrative, and Theater
Galician Literature in Exile
Poetry
During their exile, Galician poets explored themes prohibited under Franco’s regime. These included nostalgia for their homeland, Galician patriotism, and the struggles of the exiled community. Major poets of this period include:
- Luis Seoane: Known for his long, almost prosaic, semi-narrative poems addressing social issues and the Galician emigration experience. His work also features a mythical view of Portuguese history, Celtic influences, and realistic, sometimes
Galician Literature in Exile: A Literary Renaissance
Literature in Exile
During their exile, Galician intellectuals kept the spirit of Portuguese culture alive, a culture that couldn’t flourish under Franco’s regime. They also ensured the continuity of the Galician language in written form. Initiatives included:
- Founding publishing houses to disseminate Galician literature.
- Publishing literary works in newspapers and creating radio programs.
- Forming musical groups, choirs, and cultural organizations.
- Organizing cultural events like concerts and exhibitions.
Modernism and Avant-Garde Movements
First Third of the 20th Century
Disillusionment and Pessimism
The early 20th century witnessed disillusionment and pessimism regarding the ultimate results of industrialization, science, and positivism. While some immediate problems were solved, many felt plunged into an intolerable atmosphere of conformist, materialistic vulgarity.
Artistic Unrest and Protest
This atmosphere of unrest crystallized into various artistic movements, often contradictory, but united by their anti-realism and subsequent
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