Generation of '98: Spanish Literature and Identity

The Problem of Spain and Regenerationism

Some of the most characteristic elements were the analysis of the problem of Spain from a regenerationist orientation. This perspective was critical and radical, longing for Europeanization and proposing utopian solutions, as seen in the works of Joaquín Costa and Ángel Ganivet. Alternatively, a mature orientation paid attention to the values that constitute the essence of Spain, featuring subtopics such as:

• Spanish lands: Described with pain and love, especially praising the Castilian countryside.
• History: A dive to discover the essence of Spain, paying particular attention to intrahistory.
• Exaltation of the Spanish: A celebration of national identity and culture.

Existential Concerns and Religious Struggles

Another important theme was the block of existential concerns, such as destiny, time, and death. In his youth, Miguel de Unamuno defended agnosticism and anti-clericalism, criticizing pointless Catholicism. Unamuno's concerns were highlighted by death, anguish, the tragic condition of man, and a hunger for God. For him, Christianity becomes an agony of struggle between his intellect and his will to believe.

The Poetic Legacy of Antonio Machado

In poetry, Antonio Machado stands out. His work is characterized by the Romantic influence exerted by Bécquer and Rosalía de Castro, alongside his conception of the landscape as a reflection of the soul. He maintained a critical perspective on the problem of Spain because he felt committed to the attempt to create another Spain through the use of symbols.

Themes and Poetic Style

Recurring themes include the passage of time, Castilla, the search for a new Spain, interest in the landscape, love, and the search for God. His style is characterized by a variety of poetic verses that are refined and debugged.

The Three Stages of Machado's Work

His work consists of three stages, each characterized by the following collections:

• Soledades, Galerías y otros poemas: This covers topics such as time, memories, dreams, and love, featuring modernist characteristics and symbolism.
• Campos de Castilla: Here, sentiments shift from the individual to the collective. Its key themes are Leonor and Soria, plus references that respond to a patriotic concern about the past, present, or future of Spain. These are short, lyrical, and philosophical poems, or those based on popular songs.
• Nuevas canciones: In this work, he expresses his philosophical concerns and evocations of memories.

Narrative and the Generation of '98

The narrative of the Generation of '98 represented a critical spirit. Certain modifications occurred as the plot lost importance; the story focuses on a single character and his inner world. The action is governed by the internal struggle experienced by the protagonist, and dialogue is used to present existential conflicts.

Salient Points and the Essay Genre

The salient points are: concern for Spain, intrahistory, and the landscape, which becomes another character. The style is uneven but generally follows an anti-rhetorical aesthetic, reflected in short sentences as authors seek simplicity and clarity. The essay is one of the most popular genres, focusing on the situation in Spain, the love of Castile, and the meaning of life.