18th Century Spanish Literature: Neoclassicism and Pre-Romanticism
Neoclassicism and Pre-Romanticism in 18th Century Spanish Literature
Poetry
While Baroque poetry, best represented by Diego Torres Villarroel and Francisco de Quevedo, dominated the previous century, the 18th century saw the rise of Neoclassicism and Pre-Romanticism. Neoclassical poetry, championed by Juan Meléndez Valdés, emphasized order, reason, and imitation of classical models. Pre-Romantic poetry, on the other hand, explored themes of intense emotion, metaphysical reflection, and social issues.
Juan Meléndez Valdés synthesized these movements in his work. He embraced the light, sensual, and playful style of Anacreontic poetry (a form of Neoclassicism) while also incorporating the humanitarian concerns characteristic of Pre-Romanticism. His prose works include the play “The Wedding of Camacho the Rich” and forensic speeches that showcased his enlightened ideas.
Prose
Prose in the 18th century saw significant development, particularly in the essay form. Three distinct styles emerged: Post-Baroque, Neoclassical (characterized by clarity and didacticism), and Pre-Romantic.
Fray Benito Jerónimo Feijóo wrote numerous didactic essays aimed at disseminating knowledge and moralizing society. José Cadalso, a key figure in the transition from Neoclassicism to Pre-Romanticism, authored the “Moroccan Letters,” a satirical work critiquing Spanish society. Gaspar Melchor de Jovellanos, a prominent writer and politician, chronicled the events of the late 18th century in his letters and diaries, and also wrote influential essays on political and social reform.
Theatre
The 18th century was marked by ongoing debates about the nature and purpose of theatre. Enlightenment thinkers advocated for a didactic and realistic theatre, while the public continued to enjoy the spectacle and extravagance of Post-Baroque works. Neoclassical writers, influenced by Enlightenment ideals, rejected the Baroque theatre of Lope de Vega and Calderón de la Barca, particularly the works of their imitators.
Post-Baroque Theatre
Post-Baroque comedy dominated the stage and printing presses during the first half of the century. The auto sacramental (religious plays) and short, comedic sketches also remained popular.
Neoclassical Theatre
Despite efforts by playwrights like Agustín de Montiano y Luyando, Neoclassical theatre struggled to gain widespread popularity in Spain.
Pre-Romantic Theatre
In the late 18th century, Pre-Romantic sentimentality began to emerge, foreshadowing the shift away from Neoclassicism.
Examples of Pre-Romantic Literature
Green Eyes: This short story tells the tale of Fernando, who fatally ignores warnings about a haunted spring. He encounters a mysterious woman with green eyes who lures him to his death. The story’s emphasis on emotion, mystery, and the supernatural foreshadows key elements of Romanticism.
The Gold Bracelet of Mary: This story follows Pedro, who attempts to steal a gold bracelet from a statue of the Virgin Mary. He is driven mad by guilt and fear, highlighting the themes of sin, punishment, and the power of the supernatural.
White Shield: This tale revolves around Garcés, who falls in love with Constance and attempts to win her affection by capturing a white doe. The story explores themes of love, obsession, and the destructive power of unrequited passion. The tragic ending, where Garcés accidentally kills Constance, underscores the dangers of unchecked desire.