Evolution of Religious Theater and Renaissance Literature

Religious Theater Cycles and Drama Types

The most important theater cycles include the Passion of the Lord, the Assumption of the Virgin, and the Procession of Corpus Christi.

The Christmas Cycle

• The Shepherds: A representation of Jesus featuring Sibyl pastors.
• Cant: A reminder performed on the ranch.

The Easter Series

• Les Passions: Works that capture the passion, death, and resurrection of Christ.

Cycle of the Assumption of Mary

• The Mystery of Elche: A significant dramatization of the Assumption.

The Procession of Corpus Christi

This cycle involves various art forms including dance and "hors d'oeuvres." These are representations of biblical topics often referred to as Castles Rocks.

The Mystery of Elche (15th Century)

This is the dramatization of the death and Assumption of the Virgin Mary to heaven. It consists of two main events:

• In the Morning: The performance begins when the angel announces to Mary that she will be proclaimed Queen of Angels.
• The Party (La Festa): This act recreates the confrontation between the apostles and a group of Jews over the body of Mary.

The scenario for this performance is the Parish Church of Santa Maria.

The Renaissance (15th-16th Century)

The Renaissance was an era of cultural renewal in Europe where humanity was placed at the center of the universe.

Key Features of the Renaissance

• The evaluation of man as the central character of the universe.
• Classical antiquity serves as the primary reference model.
• A dedicated search for balance and harmony.
• Vernacular languages are recognized as valid vehicles of expression.
• A focus on the knowledge of Greek and Latin authors.

The Decadence (16th Century)

During this period, the quantity and quality of our literature declined over three centuries (the 16th, 17th, and 18th).

Causes of the Decline

1. The Castilianization of the court.
2. The fascination exerted on Latin humanists.
3. The growing prestige of Spanish literature.

Courtesy Theater (16th Century)

This drama reflects the process of the Spanish version of the court. These works are typically bilingual.

Notable Authors

• Joan Ferrandis d'Heredia: Known for the work La Vesita.
• Lluís del Milà: Known for the work The Courtesan.

Poetry Features and Authors

Main Characteristics

1. Continuation of the medieval satirist legacy.
2. Imitation of poetry with a popular and traditional character.
3. Efforts to align with European trends.

Featured Author: Joan Timoneda

Timoneda usually produced popular books, such as Flor d'enamorats (Flower of Lovers). This collection includes 54 pieces in Valencian, featuring popular sayings, proverbs, and idioms.