The ’98 Generation: Key Spanish Authors and Works
Generation of ’98: Spanish Literary Renewal
Definition and Origin of the Generation of ’98
The Generation of ’98 was a Spanish literary movement that emerged following the Disaster of ’98 (the Spanish-American War). It advocated for the aesthetic renewal of literature and the socio-cultural regeneration of Spain. This group is considered a true literary generation, notably influenced by the manifestos of Azorín, Baroja, and Machado.
Key Characteristics of the Generation of ’98
- A blend of castizo (traditional Spanish) and European influences, seeking to “Europeanize Spain” while preserving its unique identity.
- Subjectivism: An introspective vision of reality, often reflecting personal anguish and existential concerns.
- Idealization of the Landscape: The Spanish landscape, particularly Castile, becomes a symbol of the Spanish soul and national identity.
- Concern for Spain’s Problems: Prioritizing content and social commentary over purely aesthetic form, addressing the nation’s decline.
- Philosophical Reflections: Deep contemplation on the meaning of life, death, and human existence.
- Linguistic Innovation: An attempt to create a natural, enriched language, often incorporating regionalisms.
Prominent Authors of the Generation of ’98
Azorín (José Martínez Ruiz)
Known for his concise, simple prose and keen observations. His works often reflect on the passage of time and the Spanish landscape.
Notable Works by Azorín:
- The Will (La Voluntad)
- Travel Books (Libros de viajes)
- Route of Don Quixote (La Ruta de Don Quijote)
Antonio Machado: Poet of the Generation of ’98
Campos de Castilla (Fields of Castile)
Considered his poetic masterpiece, this collection is heterogeneous in its themes and metrics.
Structure of Campos de Castilla:
- Part 1 (Soria): Focuses on criticizing the people of Spain and reflecting on its decadent yet glorious past. The landscape serves as a vehicle to explore the soul of Spain.
- Part 2 (Baeza): Machado recalls Soria and his deceased wife, offering a critique of Spanish society.
- Part 3 (Proverbs and Songs): Contains brief, popular philosophical meditations on themes like God, love, and existence.
- Part 4 (Elegies): Comprises 14 poems paying homage to 14 influential thinkers.
Nuevas Canciones (New Songs)
In this work, philosophical ideas and thoughts largely replace the landscape as the central focus.
Miguel de Unamuno: Philosopher and Novelist
Unamuno was a prolific writer, excelling in essays, poetry, and drama.
Key Works by Unamuno:
- Essays: Around Casticism (En torno al casticismo)
- Poetry: The Christ of Velázquez (El Cristo de Velázquez)
The “Nivola” Narrative Technique:
Unamuno developed a unique narrative technique called Nivola. In a Nivola, the author often speaks freely, suppressing detailed descriptions. Protagonists typically face profound existential struggles, often expressed through internal monologue rather than conventional dialogue.
Notable Nivolas:
- Mist (Niebla): Explores the problem of existence and God. The main character ultimately commits suicide.
- Abel Sánchez: Focuses on the destructive themes of envy and hatred, which persist between two individuals and their descendants.
- Aunt Tula (La tía Tula): Depicts loneliness and frustrated motherhood through a woman who dedicates her life to caring for her nephews after their parents’ death.
- San Manuel Bueno, Martyr (San Manuel Bueno, mártir): Addresses the existence of God and the concept of happiness through a lie. A village pastor, who appears to have faith but secretly does not, believes this deception is for the good of his people.
Pío Baroja: Master of the Novel
Pío Baroja developed his distinctive novelistic technique, characterized by a direct, unadorned style and a focus on individual struggles.
Selected Novels by Pío Baroja:
- The Way of Perfection (El camino de perfección): The protagonist dedicates himself to spirituality after a negative love experience.
- The Quest (La busca): Part of a trilogy, it vividly depicts various social environments in early 20th-century Madrid.
- Zalacaín the Adventurer (Zalacaín el aventurero): Also part of a trilogy, this novel is set during the Carlist Wars.
- The Tree of Knowledge (El árbol de la ciencia): Belonging to another trilogy, this is his most famous work, featuring a misfit doctor who ultimately commits suicide.
Ramón María del Valle-Inclán: Innovator of Spanish Theater
Valle-Inclán was a key figure in Spanish literature, known for his innovative narrative and dramatic works.
Notable Novel:
- Tyrant Flags (Tirano Banderas): A renowned novel that explores the theme of South American dictatorships.
Theater Works:
1. Mythic Cycle:
- Barbarous Comedies (Comedias Bárbaras): A trilogy recounting the story of a degenerate family in rural Galicia.
- Divine Words (Divinas Palabras): Depicts the dispute between two women vying to profit from exhibiting a dwarf.
2. Grotesque Cycle (Esperpento):
The esperpento is a dramatic genre created by Valle-Inclán, characterized by the grotesque deformation of reality, people, and values. It serves to denounce the absurdities and injustices of contemporary Spanish society.
- Characteristics of Esperpento:
- Rich and varied language.
- Literary and detailed stage directions.
- Numerous characters and diverse scenes.
- Bohemian Lights (Luces de Bohemia): Valle-Inclán’s masterpiece, it portrays the tragic last night of Max Estrella, a blind poet representing idealism, accompanied by his guide.
- Carnival Tuesday (Martes de Carnaval): Another trilogy that parodies various aspects of Spanish society and history.