Neoclassicism and Andrés Bello: A Study of Influence
Neoclassicism
The term Neoclassicism, emerging in the 18th century as a pejorative, describes the aesthetic movement reflecting the Enlightenment’s intellectual principles. These principles, developing since the mid-18th century in philosophy, permeated all areas of culture.
Characteristics of Neoclassicism
- Probability: All depicted events should be possible, omitting the unusual, abnormal, and even the everyday.
- Imitation of Human Nature: Only the good aspects of human nature were portrayed, reflecting literature’s moral function.
- Moral and Didactic Function: Literature aimed to instruct while also pleasing and impressing the public.
- Synthesis of Beauty and Utility: Art should strive for a balance between aesthetic appeal and practical purpose.
- Law and Order: Structure and rules were essential to literary creation.
- Simplicity and Naturalness: Literary works were crafted to appear simple and natural.
Andrés Bello: A Neoclassical Figure
Biography
Andrés Bello (November 29, 1781 – October 15, 1865) was a prominent humanist of 19th-century South America. Born in Caracas, Venezuela, this philosopher, poet, philologist, educator, and jurist lived there until 1810. Involved in Venezuela’s independence movement, he joined a diplomatic mission to London, residing there for nearly two decades. In 1829, he moved to Chile, where he worked in law and humanities, eventually receiving Chilean citizenship.
Works
Poetry
- Address to Poetry
- Silva to the Torrid Zone
- Agriculture of the Torrid Zone
- Tirsis
- Poem on America
- Sonnets
Life Stages
Caracas (1781–1810)
Bello frequented the Convent of La Merced’s library, learning Latin and developing his interest in philosophy and grammar. He studied at the Royal and Pontifical University of Caracas, earning a Bachelor of Arts in 1800. He then tutored prominent Caracas families, including Simón Bolívar.
London (1810–1829)
Bello arrived in London as part of a diplomatic mission with Bolívar. During his 20-year stay, lacking support for the Venezuelan cause, he worked as a private tutor and librarian. He married Mary Ann Boyland, with whom he had three children, one of whom died. He later served as secretary for the Chilean delegation in London.
Santiago (1829–1865)
In Santiago, Bello became a senator, professor, and newspaper editor. He was instrumental in drafting Chile’s Civil Code, a groundbreaking legal work. In 1842, he helped establish the University of Chile, serving as its first president for over two decades. His notable works include a Spanish grammar, principles of international law, and a summary of Venezuelan history.