Basque Literary Shift: Traditionalism to Modernity (1864–1972)

The Traditional Basque Novel (Late 19th Century to 1936)

The traditional Basque novel emerged in the late 19th century and continued until the period surrounding the Spanish Civil War (1936). This literary tradition exhibits several defining characteristics:

• Romantic Roots: It is fundamentally rooted in the romantic novel tradition.
• Focus on Customs: Writers were sensitive to local customs, often highlighting the risk of their loss or change.
• Idealization of Rural Life: There is a strong idealization of the people in villages and coastal communities.
• Religious Influence: The Catholic religion carries significant weight, often presenting an open pastoral tone.
• Narrative Style: These novels are typically descriptive, sometimes featuring weak or intricate plots. The narrator is usually omniscient (orojakilea).
• Basque Identity: Writers were driven by a strong awareness of Basque identity and culture.

Txomin Aguirre is considered the foremost novelist of this era.

Txomin Aguirre (1864–1920): Master of Traditional Basque Fiction

Born in Ondarroa, Txomin Aguirre was a priest who died in Zumaia. He was a prominent member of the Basque literary community. He wrote three major works:

1. Auñamendiak flower
2. Garoa
3. Mises

Analysis of Major Works

Mises

The atmosphere of Mises is centered on fishing and reflects the customs and way of life in Ondarroa. The narrative includes accounts of love.

Style in Mises:

• Sentence Structure: Characterized by long sentences.
• Vocabulary: Extremely careful and precise dictionary choice.
• Adjectives: Frequent use of adjectives (izenondoak) to lend seriousness and maturity to the text.
• Rhetoric: Proficient use of literary devices, including wordplay, comparison, and paradox.

Garoa

Garoa reflects the atmosphere of farm life, specifically written about Guipuzcoan culture. The work demonstrates a mastery of style and language, utilizing various literary resources. Its dialogues and sense of vitality have become exemplary.

General Features of Aguirre's Novels:

• Didacticism: A strong desire to educate the reader (didaktismoa).
• Linguistic Care: Careful attention to the Basque language.
• Style: Characterized by a calm, measured pace (patxadatsua).

The Modern Basque Novel

The modern Basque novel introduced significant features that ensured its modernity and alignment with European literary currents. This era is often segmented into periods: 1957–1969, 1969–1976, and post-1976.

Key Characteristics of Modern Basque Fiction

1. Subjectivity: Emphasis on individual visions of the world (nabarmendi).
2. Irony and Criticism: Irony is employed to present a critical view of reality (azaltzeko).
3. Reflection and Openness: Criticism serves as a reflection of an accepting attitude, representing an openness to accept changes.

Profile of Modern Basque Writers

Basque writers embraced innovation, leading to a new profile:

• They possess university studies.
• They began writing at a young age.
• They often initiated their careers in urban settings.
• They are knowledgeable about European languages and literature.
• They are Basque speakers.
• They exhibit heterodox cultural tastes.
• They maintain a clear commitment to the Basque language.

This modernization allowed Basque literature to synchronize with contemporary European literary trends.

Jon Mirande (Paris 1925–1972)

Jon Mirande, whose parents were from Zuberoa (zuberotarra), was a key figure in modern Basque literature. He was an euskaldunberri (a new Basque speaker) and a great polyglot, known for his profound linguistic recognition. His life was marked by heterodoxy and controversy. He was known to be anti-Semitic, anti-clerical, fascist, and anti-Francoist (antifrankista). He was a great polemicist and died by suicide.

Haur besoetakoa (The Godchild/Foster Child)

This work is a psychological novel centered on the curious and controversial relationship between the protagonist/narrator and his 11-year-old godchild, Theresa.

Other Literary References

• Anabitarte Augustine: "poly"
• Sebastian Salaberria: "nizkin strip me"