Catalan Literary Figures: Vilanova and Oller's Realist Narratives

Emilio Vilanova: Chronicler of Catalan Customs

Emilio Vilanova stands as a foremost representative of customs in Catalan literature, embracing the traditions of great literary works. His entire body of work creates a vivid world with a magnificent use of the Catalan language. Vilanova's narratives are often set in the Barcelona neighborhood of Santa Maria del Mar, featuring characters drawn from the working class and popular strata. He is a keen observer of reality, and his works present an elegiac, nostalgic, and poeticized vision of disappearing customs, while also revealing subtle social criticism.

Narcís Oller: A Writer in Tune with His Times

Narcís Oller, a lawyer, regretted not being able to dedicate himself solely to literature, especially during a period when the novel genre was not experiencing a favorable moment. However, his first book, The Butterfly (1882), was crucial in gaining significant recognition. He received support and assistance from two of the most important critics of the time: Josep Yxart and Joan Sardà. Oller's ambitious narrative project aimed to portray the society of his time, marking his significant entry into Catalan literature, particularly around the period of the Jocs Florals (1879-1880).

The Butterfly (1882) achieved great success and positive reviews, even being translated into other European languages, with a prologue written by Émile Zola. Although not a purely naturalistic work, it incorporates elements with a distinct naturalistic flavor. It features a surprising ending, full of sentimentality and moralistic references.

Key Works by Narcís Oller

The Escanyapobres (1884)

This novel, published in 1884, is one of the highlights of Oller's work. It moves beyond a purely sentimental approach, embracing an objectivism that aligns with realistic ideals. This short novel observes the uneconomical behavior of certain characters and the impact of industrialization on the Catalan countryside. It clearly demonstrates Oller's desire to portray society and emphasize the role of the bourgeoisie.

Vilaniu (1885) and The Gold Rush (1890-1892)

Vilaniu (1885) expresses the social and historical tensions of the time within a provincial environment.

The Gold Rush (1890-1892) is Oller's most ambitious novel. It depicts the rise of the bourgeoisie during the "gold rush" period (1880-1882), coinciding with the start of the stock market boom. The novel features important descriptions of Barcelona and the environments where members of the bourgeoisie gathered, such as The Lyceum.

Madness (1899)

This is a short novel narrated by a character who recounts the story of the 'madman' Daniel Serrallonga, with significant contributions from a doctor and a lawyer within the narrative framework.

Pilar Prim (1906)

Oller's last novel, Pilar Prim, joins the search for an alternative, renewing the crisis of realism and naturalism. Its concern for character psychology introduces new modernist trends.

The Stories

Most of Oller's short stories offer a vivid portrait of society and the lifestyles of his time.