Medieval Spanish Literature: From Epic to Lyric Poetry
Medieval Spanish Literature
Mester de Clerecía
This genre features narrative poems with religious, moral, or heroic intentions. Written in verse with a regular meter, typically Alexandrian quatrains, key works include “The Book of Alexandre” and “Fernán González’s Poem”.
Gonzalo de Berceo (13th Century)
The first Castilian poet to abandon anonymity, proudly proclaiming his name. His works reflect the Church’s influence and the need for educational reform. His poems, like the Miracles of Our Lady,
Read MoreThe Lexicon of Castilian: Evolution and Influences
The Lexicon of Castilian
1. Lexical-Semantic Level
The basic lexical unit is the lexeme, the foundation of the word. Lexemes are monemes with full meaning. The study of the lexicon involves lexicology (inventory and classification of lexical units, dictionary development) and semantics (study of meaning). These are intertwined, hence the term “lexical-semantic level.”
2. Formation of the Lexicon of Castilian
Castilian originates from Latin, but other languages have also influenced its lexicon. Loanwords
Read MoreCatalan Literature and European Artistic Movements: A Historical Overview
Books of Chivalry
Arthurian legend, the ideal of chivalry is characterized by the presence of wondrous elements and unlikely places in distant lands. Exotic and timeless themes are described, especially in the old Spanish Amadís de Gaula. These themes degenerate in Cervantes’ Don Quixote.
Novels of Chivalry
Novels that still treat the myth of King Arthur, but do not incorporate marvelous elements. Strong protagonists are violent but within the human dimension, and the settings are localized in time.
Read MoreFeudal Society and the Rise of Courtly Love (11th-13th Centuries)
Feudal Society (11th-13th Centuries)
Social Classes
- Nobility: Managed lands, held command, resided in castles and palaces.
- Commoners: Worked the land, tended animals, lived in huts made of mud and reeds.
To exert control over the commoners, the nobility established a hierarchy of loyal followers bound by oaths of fealty and dependence.
Oath of Allegiance
The hierarchical relationships between nobles were formalized through written contracts and rituals of homage and oaths of allegiance. The lord granted
Read MoreTirant lo Blanc and Ausiàs March: Exploring Medieval Valencian Literature
Tirant lo Blanc: A Pioneering Novel
Joanot Martorell, a medieval Valencian writer born between 1413 and 1415, is renowned for his authorship of Tirant lo Blanc. Considered the first modern European novel, this complex and unique work places Martorell among the greatest authors of Catalan and universal literature. Born into a noble family originally from Gandia but residing in Valencia since 1400, Martorell led a vibrant life as a knight, with travels to England, Portugal, and Italy. His grandfather
Read MoreModern Galician Literature: Authors, Trends, and Evolution
Modern Galician Literature
Prominent Authors
Manuel Rivas
Journalist and writer, Rivas enjoys success both in Galicia and internationally. His extensive literary output includes poetry, novels, short stories, drama, and journalistic chronicles. Notable novels include All Is Good, Eating Potatoes, Wild Company, Do You Love Me, Love?, The Carpenter’s Pencil, and The Hand of the Paíños. His work often features an ironic and sympathetic view of Galicia, blending rural and urban elements. Humorous notes
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