Literary Devices and Neoclassical Thought

Literary Devices: Hyperbaton and Epithet

Understanding Hyperbaton

Hyperbaton is a figure of speech that dramatically alters the logical order of words in a sentence. In the Castilian language, phrases are often constructed in ways that allow for such alterations, emphasizing certain elements or creating a specific rhythm.

Defining Epithet

An epithet (from Greek epithetos, 'added' or 'aggregate') is an adjective or participle that highlights an intrinsic characteristic of a noun. Examples include:

• "cold" in "cold snow"
• "heat" from "hot fire"
• "moisture" in "wet water"

Epithets frequently accompany names of deities, kings, and historical figures, such as:

• Athena "Parthenos" (Athena "the Virgin")
• Alexander "the Great"
• Alfonso X "el Sabio" (Alfonso X "the Wise")

Neoclassicism: Reason and Order in Literature

Historical Context and Core Principles

Neoclassicism was a literary movement widely distributed in Europe, especially in France, from the second half of the eighteenth century to the early nineteenth century. It exalted a refined taste for classical antiquity and Greco-Roman civilization. The term "Neoclassicism" itself means "new classic," reflecting a deliberate return to the ideals of classical cultures: Greece and Rome.

In neoclassical literature, reason and balance prevailed, often leaving emotions aside. It embodied the ideals of order, logic, and good taste.

Neoclassicism in Latin America

In Latin America, Neoclassicism defended the rule of reason and balance, contrasting sharply with the often overloaded Baroque style that characterized colonial times. This movement significantly accompanied the beginning of the struggle for independence in various countries across the region.

Didactic Purpose and Language

The primary purpose of the Neoclassical period was didactic. Authors and writers of the time dedicated their works to educating the reader. The language used in this movement was characterized by its simplicity and everyday nature.

Literary Examples and Figurative Language

Notable Works

Some notable literary works from or related to the period include:

• "Anauco Ode"
• "Ode to the Vaccine"
• "Sonnet to the Battle of Bailen"
• "Shady Habitation of the Tagus Tirsis"
• "Ode to a Samana"

Figurative Expressions

Examples of figurative expressions and their meanings:

• "roof of the world" = the summit of Everest
• "The king of beasts" = the lion
• "material used to calculate the angles" = trigonometry

Andrés Bello: A Legacy of Service to America

Life in London and Early Struggles

Due to various circumstances, Andrés Bello could never return to Venezuela. He lived in London for 19 years, a period Arturo Uslar Pietri described as one of "poverty, abandonment, and loneliness."

Contributions in Chile

In Chile, Bello distinguished himself as a grammarian, journalist, lawyer, and educator, dedicating all his efforts to serving America.

Educational and Linguistic Achievements

His greatest educational achievement was the creation of the University of Chile, which he inaugurated with a significant speech in 1843.

In 1847, he published his monumental work, Grammar of the Castilian Language for Americans (Gramática de la Lengua Castellana destinada al uso de los Americanos), many of whose principles remain valid today.

Further Contributions in Chile

In Chile, Bello again stands out as a grammarian, journalist, lawyer, and educator, all deliberately to serve America.

Further Educational and Linguistic Achievements

His greatest work in education was again the creation of the University of Chile, which opened with a great speech in 1843.

In 1847, he again published his Grammar of the Castilian Language for Americans (Gramática de la Lengua Castellana destinada al uso de los Americanos), many of whose principles are still valid.