Spanish Literature from Neoclassicism to Realism
The 18th Century: Neoclassicism
Also known as the 18th century, the Age of Reason, or the Enlightenment (Ilustración), this was a time of rationalist spirit and a zeal to create progress. This reform movement, of French origin, sought to transform society and culture through the spread of the Enlightenment. It aimed to illuminate society with the light of reason, moving apart from faith. Absolute monarchs themselves implemented reforms from their position of power through enlightened despotism, whose motto was "everything for the people, but without the people" (todo para el pueblo, pero sin el pueblo).
The great political and social transformation that occurred in this century ended with the French Revolution. During the 18th century, the majority...