Catalan Modernism: Poetry, Prose, and Cultural Renaissance

NEW:

1. Introduction to Modernism

Arose in Catalonia between 1892 and 1911. Catalonia desired a national and European identity, unlike the Reinaixença. It showed a desire for modernization, renovation efforts, and a cosmopolitan spirit. There were two stages:

- Combative Stage (1892-1898):

Artists criticized society and aimed to impose their vision. They carried out their work in cultural centers in Barcelona (Els Quatre Gats brewery) and Sitges (Cau Ferrat) and with publications such as L'Avenç.

- Established Stage (1898-1911):

The bourgeoisie accepted Modernism. It was the most fruitful period. The Joventut magazine was important. Modernism ended with the death of Joan Maragall. It established a special relationship between artist and society.

2. Modernist Poetry

- Esponteista Proposal:

Represented by Joan Maragall, it sought open expression and free spontaneity. There were different genres such as vitalism and regenerationism. It criticized the excessive cult of the past and outdated patriotism.

- Formalist Proposal:

Aimed to retrieve a more definite and formal poetic language. Represented by the Mallorcan School. The favorite subjects were landscape and a dramatic, harmonic, and balanced life.

2.1. Joan Maragall

Came from a bourgeois family, was deeply religious, and formed a traditional family. Based on the issues, his poetry is classified as:

• Poetry of Nature: Used landscape to suggest personal feelings (e.g., "The Beech in Jordan").
• Patriotic Poetry: Recounted Catalan myths and nationalist traits (e.g., "Comte Arnau," "Serralongue").
• Vitalist Poetry: Displayed an optimistic side (e.g., "Excelsior").
• Decadent Poetry: Expressed moods of death and evil.

His non-poetic works include The Praise of the Word, praising poetry.

2.2. Mallorcan School

Comprised poets from Mallorca who shared traits and a poetic interest in modernizing language and culture.

• The most important poet was Miquel Costa i Llobera (1854-1922), who studied law and became a priest. He is considered the initiator of this school. His notable work is Horacianes.
• Joan Alcover (1854-1926): Poet and essayist, though he practiced law. His family's suffering is reflected in his work.
• Maria Antònia Salvà (1869-1958): Was devoted to poetry and translation; her work focuses on the landscape.

3. Modernist Narrative

Aimed to modernize Catalan prose, using poetic prose. It reflected individual-society tensions. The types are:

- Rural Narrative:

Action happened in the countryside, and the characters were peasants.