Spanish Renaissance Prose and Narrative

Spanish Prose of the Renaissance

Introduction

Political, religious, and literary exchanges between Italy and Spain flourished from the mid-15th century, fostering a rich cultural interchange. Castilian prose continued to develop throughout the 16th century, alongside numerous Latin studies. Works in Castilian became increasingly common, exploring diverse topics. This period distinguishes between didactic and narrative prose.

1. Didactic Prose

The dialogue was a prominent didactic format, with over a hundred written in Castilian, alongside many in Latin. Dialogues often critiqued contemporary customs and societal types. Notable examples include works by brothers Juan and Alfonso Valdés. Juan’s “Dialogue of the Tongue” championed a Renaissance ideal of simple yet elegant language. Alfonso penned “Dialogue of Things Going On in Rome,” a fervent defense of Charles I’s imperial policies and a satire of ecclesiastical practices, and “Dialogue of Mercury and Charon,” which envisioned an Erasmian universal state and advocated religious reform. Other Erasmian dialogues include “The Crotalon,” likely by Cristobal de Villalon, and “Trip to Turkey” by Andre Laguna. Fray Luis de Leon’s “Cristo” also employed the dialogue form. Moral and religious books were abundant, with Antonio de Guevara, author of “Contempt of Court” and “Praise of Village Life,” being a widely read author.

Narrative Poetry

16th-century Castilian narratives embraced both medieval and Renaissance ideals. These narratives encompassed various forms, including picaresque, Moorish, and other novelistic styles, contrasting sharply with earlier idealized forms through their stark realism. This era culminated in the works of Cervantes, which encompassed all genres of the period, reaching its peak in the early 17th century.

2.1. The Pastoral Novel

Originating in Italy, like the sentimental novel, the pastoral novel adopted the bucolic atmosphere of the Eclogues. The first Spanish text in this genre, Jorge de Montemayor’s “Diana,” appeared mid-century. The genre’s popularity led to its cultivation by prominent late 16th and early 17th-century authors such as Lope de Vega and Cervantes.

2.2. The Byzantine Novel

A key prose narrative form of the 17th century, the Byzantine novel can be seen as a precursor to the modern adventure novel. Originating in Greek literature, these stories typically featured two young lovers whose desire to marry is thwarted by obstacles. Their love is tested and ultimately strengthened through trials and setbacks. These moralizing tales extolled chaste love and virtuous conduct, offering a humanist ideal against the influx of chivalric literature.

2.3. The Moorish Novel

This idealistic prose fiction genre emerged in the 16th century, portraying idealized relationships between Muslims and Christians, often depicting peaceful coexistence. This genre, exemplified by “Abencerraje,” may have served as a means of promoting peace and avoiding conflict.

2.4. The Picaresque Novel

A parody of idealizing Renaissance narratives (epic, chivalric, sentimental, pastoral), the picaresque novel offered a stark contrast to social realities. This ironic “anti-novel” featured an “anti-hero,” often from the impoverished gentry, highlighting the harsh realities of marginalized individuals. Key characteristics of the genre include:

  1. Autobiographical narration addressed to a higher-ranking individual.
  2. Chronological narrative following the protagonist’s service to various masters from childhood to adulthood.
  3. Use of irony and dialogue to develop the plot and express social criticism.
  4. A rogue protagonist from a lower social class, motivated by hunger rather than ideals.

The anonymous “Lazarillo de Tormes,” published in 1554, narrates the life of Lázaro, a boy serving various masters who mistreat him.