18th Century Spanish Cultural Movements: Neoclassicism, Literature & Theater
18th Century Spanish Cultural Movements
The Illustration: A cultural movement in Spain that spread throughout the 18th century, characterized by:
- Rationalism: Emphasis on reason and confidence in science.
- Humanitarianism: The belief that human action should aim for the ultimate good.
- Reformism: The idea that human progress is gradual.
- Individualism: Focus on individual initiative, confidence, and kindness.
- Faith in Progress: The belief that progress leads to happiness and well-being for all.
Neoclassicism
Characterized by:
- Didacticism: Literature’s purpose is to educate.
- Clarity: Clear expression of ideals.
- Inspiration from Rules: Rules ensure clarity and truth.
The Lyric
During the 18th century, various poetic forms emerged, with innovations in themes and styles. Civic poetry satirized the greed of the privileged classes, advocating for the protection of the weak. There were also expressions of doubts about enlightened ideals.
Meléndez Valdés (1754-1817)
A poet inspired by his culture and time, focusing on moral and philosophical themes. His love poetry is sensual and light, characterized by transparent metaphors, elegance, and sobriety.
The Theater
The 18th century saw the continuation of the Baroque style, but new theatrical forms gained popularity. Romantic comedy aimed to move audiences and teach new values. Farce and comedy of manners, which resonated with the people, achieved greater success. Notable figures include:
- Ramón de la Cruz, who renewed the farce.
- Leandro Fernández de Moratín, who gave new dimensions to the play.
Leonor Fernández Moratín (1760-1828)
An enlightened playwright who was influenced by European trends and enjoyed the support of the powerful. Her five comedies are characterized by:
- Prose drama.
- Didactic intention.
- Middle-class characters not guided by codes of honor.
- Adherence to the three unities (action, time, and place).
Her most celebrated work is El sí de las niñas, which addresses issues such as the education of youth, critique of marriage, and freedom.
Prose
Prose Fiction
Novels of the 18th century focused more on criticism than fiction. Notable authors include:
- Diego de Torres Villarroel (1703-1781): Wrote a humorous autobiography imitating Quevedo’s style.
- José Francisco de Isla: Wrote the story of the famous preacher Brother Gerund of Campazas.
José Cadalso
His most remembered work is Cartas Marruecas, a narrative developed through a series of letters. He also wrote didactic prose.
Didactic Prose
This literary genre was well-suited for explaining Renaissance ideas. Key figures include:
- Fray Benito Jerónimo Feijoo (1680-1768): A pioneer in popularizing scientific ideas in a simple and fun way.
- Gaspar Melchor de Jovellanos (1744-1811): An enlightened thinker, lawyer, and public official who acted as an advisor to ministers. His works include Agrarian Law and reports on education.
Anglicisms and Acronyms
Anglicisms: English words incorporated into the Spanish language.
Acronyms: Terms formed with the initial letters of a group of words, such as:
- Spelling (OAS)
- Syllabic reading (NATO)
- Mixed reading (CD-ROM)
Acronym-words: Formed by joining two or more words or acronyms (UFO).