Catalan Literary Insights: Rodoreda's Psychology & 1970s Theater

Mercè Rodoreda's Literary Psychology

Focus on Female Protagonists and Inner Worlds

Yes, Mercè Rodoreda's literary production indeed focuses intensely on the psychology of her characters. In her novels, she performs a thorough analysis of the thoughts and feelings of her female protagonists, primarily through the use of interior monologue.

Rodoreda often recreates the world of childhood, which symbolizes happiness, in stark contrast to the adult world of her protagonists, which frequently represents suffering. Her women are often marked by adverse circumstances, disappointment, pain, and loneliness.

Symbolism in Rodoreda's Novels

Her works are rich in symbolism, often linking stages of life to specific novels:

• Aloma: Represents youth, describing the transition from adolescence to adulthood through an intimate relationship with a mature man and an unfortunate relative.
• The Time of the Doves (also known as Diamond Square): Symbolizes maturity. Considered a masterpiece of Catalan literature, it chronicles the life and profound psychological evolution of its protagonist, Natalia. This subjective journey unfolds parallel to significant historical events: the Spanish Republic, the Civil War, and the postwar period.
• Broken Mirror: Symbolizes old age and death.

In conclusion, Mercè Rodoreda stands as a leading exponent of the psychological novel of the postwar period.

Contemporary Playwriting: Innovations of the 1970s

Key Characteristics of Modern Theater

In the 1970s, new theatrical directions emerged, characterized by the following aspects:

• Investigation of New Scenic Spaces

  Theater companies often performed in unconventional spaces, improvising works on the street or in unexpected locations. For example, El Cubano began outside traditional performance areas, and La Fura dels Baus or Els Comediants have utilized spaces like stadiums for their 'Olympic theater'.

• Rejection of Traditional Playwriting

  Some companies developed texts collectively within the group, rejecting the traditional figure of the playwright who often worked in isolation. Els Joglars is a notable example of this collaborative approach.

• Enhanced Role of the Stage Director

  The director gained significant authority, making final decisions on all aspects of the production, leading to a full involvement in the work. Companies like Flotats's theater exemplified this shift.

• Rejection of Western Theatrical Conventions

  Faced with a perceived crisis in Western theater, there was increased interest in exploring African and especially Eastern theatrical forms (e.g., China, Japan), which were often more symbolic and ritualistic.

• Mixing Media and Expression

  All forms of expression became available for theatrical use. New technologies permeated the theatrical world, blending traditional techniques (like those used by El Tricicle) and circus arts (Els Comediants) with innovations such as screening film footage where actors suddenly appear on screen (El Cubano).