Romanticism and Neoclassicism in Spanish Literature
Romanticism
Definition
A cultural and political movement originating in Germany and the United Kingdom in the late 18th century. It emerged as a revolutionary reaction against the rationalism of the Enlightenment and Classicism, emphasizing emotion and feeling.
Key Features
Romanticism’s core principle is a departure from classical tradition and its rigid rules. The movement champions the pursuit of freedom, leading to its revolutionary character. Romanticism’s interpretation of nature, life, and humanity varies across countries and regions, influencing diverse artistic expressions.
Characteristics of Romanticism:
- Individualism
- Rejection of Reality
- Evasion
- Defense of Freedom
- Emphasis on Nature
Prominent Figures in Spanish Romanticism
José de Espronceda
The quintessential Romantic liberal, Espronceda’s rebellious spirit is evident in his literary works and his stance against societal norms. His poetry, a fervent ode to freedom, showcases a distinctly Romantic style: brilliant, musical, and dramatic. Primarily a poet, he also ventured into historical novels and plays, employing a flamboyant and emphatic style.
Gustavo Adolfo Bécquer
Bécquer’s poetry ushered in contemporary poetry with its intimacy, purity, sensitivity, and authenticity. Drawing inspiration from German Romantic lyricism and Andalusian folk songs, he excelled in lyrical poetry and rhymes. He also produced quality prose, notably his legends.
Rosalía de Castro
Castro established a style of intimate and melancholic poetry rooted in Romanticism. Inspired by the simplicity and musicality of traditional lyricism, her personal style is characterized by its straightforwardness and clarity.
Mariano José de Larra
Larra holds a significant place in literature due to his journalistic articles focusing on customs, politics, and literature. He developed a direct and unpretentious personal style, effectively conveying his message to a broad audience. His articles are categorized as “articles of customs,” “political articles,” and “literary articles.” Larra’s writing is functional, natural, and impactful, catering to the needs of journalistic communication.
Romantic Theater
Romantic theater is dominated by drama aimed at stirring the emotions of the audience. It blends tragic and comic elements, prose and verse, and disregards the classical unities of time, place, and action. Themes often revolve around conflicts of love and freedom faced by the Romantic hero, leading to tragic outcomes.
Ángel de Saavedra, Duke of Rivas
Born in Córdoba, the Duke of Rivas was a renowned playwright and poet. His narrative poems stand out, exploring themes of tragic fate and the protagonist’s relentless pursuit. His works blend genres, styles, and tones, showcasing dynamism and emotional intensity.
José Zorrilla
Born in Valladolid, Zorrilla is considered the most celebrated writer of Spanish Romanticism. His lyrical compositions and narrative poems, often written in ballad form and dealing with historical or traditional folk themes, are highly regarded. However, it is his theatrical works that brought him fame.
Neoclassicism
Definition
An 18th-century style inspired by Greco-Roman and Renaissance models, Neoclassicism aimed to reflect refined taste. Neoclassical art strives for elegance, simplicity, and reason, presenting didactic themes and characters while adhering to classical rules.
Prominent Figures in Spanish Neoclassicism
Juan Meléndez Valdés
Valdés’ work synthesizes the poetic currents of his time, blending Neoclassicism with pre-Romantic sensibilities. He explored Anacreontic, sensual, and playful themes in his odes, idylls, pastorals, elegies, and epistles. His later works transitioned into legendary romance and pre-Romanticism, embracing social, humanistic, and sentimental themes.
Fray Benito Jerónimo Feijoo
Feijoo, a prolific author of didactic essays, is considered the most important intellectual of his time. His encyclopedic works disseminated knowledge across various fields, aiming to modernize Spanish society.
José Cadalso
With his profound understanding of Neoclassicism and pre-Romanticism, Cadalso authored the most representative narrative work of the Enlightenment.
Gaspar Melchor de Jovellanos
A prominent essayist, Jovellanos addressed diverse subjects from an enlightened perspective, advocating for the modernization of Spain. He also wrote satires, prose epistles, and dramas.
Lope de Vega
An exceptional poet, Lope de Vega embraced a simple and natural style. He wrote traditional lyrics, sonnets, love poetry, and epic poetry. His autobiographical approach infused his works with intense emotion. As a narrator, he experimented with various genres, demonstrating a remarkable ability to craft dialogue, particularly in his novel “La Dorotea.”