16th-Century Spanish Narrative: Idealism and Realism

The Novel in the Sixteenth Century

The narrative genre experienced a thorough renovation during the 16th century. On one hand, the idealistic novel draws from medieval tradition and new Italian genres. On the other hand, a type of realistic novel emerged in the mid-sixteenth century, giving voice to marginal characters and denouncing the more unpleasant aspects of society. This subgenre paved the way for the modern novel.

The Idealistic Novel

The idealistic novel presents adventures and conflicts localized in an idealized world, far removed from the daily reality of readers. The characters in these novels belong to the noble class and embody models of perfection: courage, fidelity, and more. The intent of this literature is escape and entertainment, catering to the enjoyment of 16th-century readers.

Representative Types of Idealistic Novels

• Sentimental Novel: These stories narrate romantic affairs, commonly unfortunate, as they almost always end with the deaths of the protagonists.
• Pastoral Novel: The protagonists are refined shepherds in an idealized landscape. They argue about the nature of true love, its trials, and the various complications lovers suffer. This genre was subjected to persecution by moralists, who saw the expression of loving sentiments as an attack on good customs.
• Moorish Novel: This type narrates events of border fighting between Moors and Christians. These characters are notably idealized, highlighting their nobility, valor, and beauty—qualities that are constantly exalted.
• Byzantine Novel: These novels present common plot characteristics: journeys and adventures of two lovers who are separated by a shipwreck. They live through perilous adventures and are eventually reunited.
• Novella: This is usually an account of various stories with varied arguments, situated within a broader framework where all events occur.
• Chivalric Romances: Gaining popular acceptance, these tell of fantastic events featuring valiant knights-errant who live extraordinary and amazing adventures. The most perfect Spanish work of this subgenre is Amadís of Gaul, which defines the attributes of the knight.