Romanticism: Origins, Ideology, and Key Figures in Europe and Spain
Romanticism: A Cultural Renewal
Romanticism, spanning Europe in the early 19th century, marked a profound spiritual renewal and a unique approach to life, influencing all cultural domains. The movement’s initial expressions emerged in 1798 in Germany and England, coinciding with significant political and social shifts:
- Rise of parliamentary governments.
- Triumph of Liberalism in the French Revolution (1830).
- The Industrial Revolution and the expansion of capitalism.
- Ascension of the bourgeoisie to political power.
Romantic Prose Subgenres
- Customs Boxes: Short stories reflecting contemporary society and the author’s lifestyle, which were very popular.
- Historical Novel: Inspired by medieval tales, exemplified by Victor Hugo’s Les Misérables.
- Legend and Fantastic Tale: Stories featuring supernatural and inexplicable elements, notably by G.A. Bécquer.
Ideological Characteristics of Romanticism
Key traits include:
- Individualism and Subjectivism: Championing freedom.
- Irrationalism: Emphasis on emotion and passion.
- Idealism: A clash with reality.
Romantic Literature
Romanticism in Spain
Romanticism in Spain developed later, around 1830, after its establishment in Europe. It intertwined with realism, producing notable authors:
Key Spanish Romantic Authors
- José Espronceda: Known for his short poetry, including The Pirate Song and The Student of Salamanca.
- Rosalía de Castro: A prominent figure of Spanish Romanticism, famous for On the Shores of the Sar.
The Romantic Drama
The romantic drama is characterized by:
- Mixing of prose and poetry, comedy and tragedy.
- Action that disregards Aristotelian unities, allowing multiple storylines.
- Content designed to evoke emotional responses.
- The protagonist is often a brave, mysterious knight who defies societal norms, driven by love, alongside a noble lady.
Notable Spanish Romantic Dramatists
The most remarkable are the Duke of Rivas, author of Don Álvaro, or the Force of Destiny, and José Zorrilla, author of Don Juan Tenorio.
Romanticism: A Cultural Renewal
Romanticism, spanning Europe in the early 19th century, marked a profound spiritual renewal and a unique approach to life, influencing all cultural domains. The movement’s initial expressions emerged in 1798 in Germany and England, coinciding with significant political and social shifts:
- Rise of parliamentary governments.
- Triumph of Liberalism in the French Revolution (1830).
- The Industrial Revolution and the expansion of capitalism.
- Ascension of the bourgeoisie to political power.
Romantic Prose Subgenres
- Customs Boxes: Short stories reflecting contemporary society and the author’s lifestyle, which were very popular.
- Historical Novel: Inspired by medieval tales, exemplified by Victor Hugo’s Les Misérables.
- Legend and Fantastic Tale: Stories featuring supernatural and inexplicable elements, notably by G.A. Bécquer.
Ideological Characteristics of Romanticism
Key traits include:
- Individualism and Subjectivism: Championing freedom.
- Irrationalism: Emphasis on emotion and passion.
- Idealism: A clash with reality.
Romantic Literature
Romanticism in Spain
Romanticism in Spain developed later, around 1830, after its establishment in Europe. It intertwined with realism, producing notable authors:
Key Spanish Romantic Authors
- José Espronceda: Known for his short poetry, including The Pirate Song and The Student of Salamanca.
- Rosalía de Castro: A prominent figure of Spanish Romanticism, famous for On the Shores of the Sar.
The Romantic Drama
The romantic drama is characterized by:
- Mixing of prose and poetry, comedy and tragedy.
- Action that disregards Aristotelian unities, allowing multiple storylines.
- Content designed to evoke emotional responses.
- The protagonist is often a brave, mysterious knight who defies societal norms, driven by love, alongside a noble lady.
Notable Spanish Romantic Dramatists
The most remarkable are the Duke of Rivas, author of Don Álvaro, or the Force of Destiny, and José Zorrilla, author of Don Juan Tenorio.