Spanish Narrative After the Civil War (1936-1970s)

Spanish Narrative After the Civil War (1936-1970s)

General Overview (1936-1970s)

From the Civil War until the 1970s, realism dominated Spanish narrative. During the war, literature exhibited a combative nature, focused on conveying ideologies and attacking opposing viewpoints.

The Narrative of the 1940s

Traditional realism prevailed, portraying stark realities and brutal situations. Existential realism emerged, depicting individuals grappling with destiny.

Traditional Realism

Narrative techniques aligned

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Early Christian & Byzantine Art and Architecture

1. Early Christian Art’s Contributions

Within the Roman Empire, Christianity emerged, introducing a new spiritual and aesthetic dimension known as Early Christian art. This art served as a bridge between classical and medieval Christian cultures. Until the fourth century, Christians practiced their faith in secrecy due to persecution. In 313 AD, the Edict of Milan granted religious freedom, allowing Christians to express their faith openly and develop a distinct art. This marked two distinct periods:

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Spanish Literary Movements: Realism, Naturalism, and the Generation of ’98

Spanish Literary Movements: A Historical Overview

This document explores key literary movements in Spain, focusing on Realism, Naturalism, and the Generation of ’98. It examines their characteristics, prominent authors, and significant works.

1. Romanticism in Spain

Romantic prose in Spain, primarily set in the Middle Ages, often used historical facts as a backdrop for legendary characters and intriguing plots. Other forms included:

  • Short Stories/Customs Boxes: These pieces described folk customs
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Renaissance: Art, Culture, and Society in 14th-16th Century Europe

Renaissance: A Cultural and Social Transformation

Return to Classical Ideals

The Renaissance marked a revival of Greco-Roman artistic, literary, and philosophical ideals. It flourished in 14th and 15th-century Italy, later spreading across Europe.

Economic and Social Factors

  • The burgeoning bourgeoisie accumulated capital through trade and artisanal activities.
  • Economic prosperity fostered optimism.
  • Intellectuals rediscovered classical Greek and Latin texts, seeking to emulate their themes, forms, and
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Baroque and Rococo Art and Architecture

Baroque Art and Architecture

The Baroque period, falling between the Renaissance and Neoclassical periods, saw the Catholic Church responding to revolutionary cultural and religious shifts like the Protestant Reformation.

Characteristics of Baroque Art

Baroque art is characterized by:

  • Curved lines and elaborate decor
  • Grandiose buildings and exaggerated gestures
  • Emphasis on color, diagonal lines, and light
  • Extension of artwork beyond its frame

It reacted against the Renaissance’s serenity and balance, embracing

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The Family of Charles IV: A Royal Portrait

The Family of Charles IV

1. General Documentation

Title: The Family of Charles IV
Artist: Francisco de Goya (1746-1828)
Date: 1800-1801
Style: Neoclassicism (with influences beyond a single style)
Technique: Oil on canvas
Dimensions: 2.28m x 3.36m
Location: Museo del Prado, Madrid
Theme: A royal portrait commissioned by Charles IV, depicted without flattery, reminiscent of Velázquez’s Las Meninas, with Goya himself appearing as an observer in the background.

2. Formal Analysis

Plastic Elements

Goya’s brushwork

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