The Generation of '98: Spanish Literature and Social Critique

The Generation of '98: Context and Background

The Generation of '98 emerged from a period of profound national crisis. Their backgrounds are deeply rooted in the perspectives of liberals and reformers who reflected the existential pessimism and subjectivism caused by poverty and injusticia social. Ultimately, their concern for social and cultural problems led them to deep reflection.

Manifesto and Collective Concerns

Azorín, Baroja, and Maeztu published a manifesto denouncing the state of Spain. This concern also influenced authors such as Unamuno, Valle-Inclán, and Antonio Machado, who shared a simple, sober message to voice their complaints. Their attitude toward the "problem of Spain" involved analyzing and criticizing the negative aspects of the present to envision a better future.

The Significance of Castilla

Castilla became the center of their concerns. The Castilian landscape was not merely an aesthetic choice, but an element through which the human condition was interpreted.

Literary Evolution and Genre

• Essay: Became the dominant genre, used to divulge their ideology.
• Novel: Underwent significant changes, moving away from the features of traditional realistic fiction.
• Poetry: Focused on the human experience, particularly in the works of Unamuno and Antonio Machado. They believed poetry should express a deeper, distinct vision of reality.

Aesthetic Principles

The authors sought a style of sobriety to communicate effectively, often utilizing traditional lexicon. Their aesthetic was defined by simple, personal expression and harsh criticism of both the past and present reality of Spain.

Antonio Machado: Stages of Poetic Development

For Antonio Machado, intuitive poetry represents authenticity because it arises from direct experience, revealing the secrets of the "I" and looking into the soul. His work is categorized into four stages:

1. Intimate Lyricism

In Galleries and Other Poems, Machado delves into modern poetry, utilizing intimate symbols to transmit sadness and nostalgia.

2. Spiritual Reflection

This stage marks the time in which the poet finds his spiritual home, focusing on personal and reflective concerns regarding Castilla and Spain.

3. Philosophical Projection

In his later poems, such as New Songs, his work becomes a complete philosophical projection, offering deep reflection and critique on the national decline.