Romanticism and Naturalism in 19th-Century Literature
Romanticism in 19th-Century Europe
Romanticism spread throughout Europe in the 19th century. It opposed classical rules and emphasized the force of nature. Poets were inspired by imagination, intuition, and dreams. In the Floral Games, prizes of gold, silver, and a natural flower were awarded. The winner of all three was called a “Master of the Gay Science.”
Jacinto Verdaguer: A Romantic Poet
Jacinto Verdaguer, born into a humble family, entered the seminary at the age of 10. Despite initial poor results, he studied literature, philology, and history. He won two Floral Games awards within twenty years. After recovering from an illness at sea, he wrote Atlantis and Canigó. He faced a crisis involving the Marquis de Comillas’s finances, during which he multiplied donations to the poor and performed several exorcisms. He died from tuberculosis on June 10, 1902.
Elements in Verdaguer’s Poetry
- Nature as a living entity
- Creation of myths and symbols
- Inclination towards dreams, imagination, and longing
- Interest in popular culture
Atlantis is an epic poem where the forces of nature, Hercules, pagans, and religious elements intertwine, narrating the sinking of Atlantis.
Romantic Theater
Characteristics of European Romantic Theater
- Complicated and melodramatic love intrigues
- Dynamic, mysterious environments
- Spectacular scenery
- Passionate characters often leading to a tragic finale
- Themes of freedom and love, with individuals clashing with society due to differing ideals, sometimes resulting in suicide
Melodrama aimed to satisfy an undemanding audience with sentimental themes, easily provoking tears.
Protagonist Profiles
- Simple separation of good and bad characters
- Historical drama: action set in the past, presenting historical events
Frederic Soler wrote romantic comedies and dramas, known as “Gatades.”
Angel Guimerà: A Romantic Playwright
Angel Guimerà, born in the Canary Islands, often featured marginalized figures in his work, reflecting his experiences living in both Catalonia and the Canary Islands. His play Sea and Sky earned him all three Floral Games awards. His style was epic, grandiose, and passionate, exploring the interplay between good and evil.
Naturalism: A Late 19th-Century Movement
Naturalism emerged in the late 19th century, primarily in literature but also in other arts. Émile Zola initiated the movement in France, and it later spread throughout the West.
Scientific Approach in Naturalism
Naturalism adopted a scientific approach, with authors meticulously observing their surroundings to capture every detail and formulate explanatory hypotheses objectively. Characters were depicted as being influenced by genetic determinism and their educational environment. The movement was largely materialistic and atheistic, although in some countries, like Spain, it did not entirely abandon religion.
Naturalism as an Extension of Realism
Naturalism and realism are two phases of the same artistic phenomenon. Naturalism represents the culmination of realism, its most extreme form.
Narcís Oller: A Naturalist Writer
Narcís Oller aimed to depict reality through his literature, incorporating romantic aspects into realistic and naturalistic poetry.
Notable Works by Narcís Oller
- Escanyapobres: Explores the theme of the miser
- The Gold Rush
- Madness: An innovative work with a unique perspective