Medieval Catalan Literary Masters and Legal Foundations (13th-15th C.)

Ramon Llull (13th-14th Centuries)

A preacher, philosopher, missionary, and teacher, Llull utilized narrative (prose and verse, often in Latin and Arabic) for religious propaganda. He is considered one of the creators of Catalan literary prose.

Llullian Ideology and Style

• He used examples of animals and people to ensure understanding, adapting his address to the recipient.
• He did not question the political system, believing the world reflects the heavenly, not the earthly.

Major Works

• Mystical Work: Blanquerna (an autobiographical novel dedicated to religious life, featuring the life of a hermit).
• Philosophical and Doctrinal: Book of the Order of Chivalry.
• Verse: Song of Ramon.

Francesc Eiximenis (14th Century)

Known for works like Lo Crestià and The Book of Women, Eiximenis focused on exposing Christian ideas simply and with accessible examples.

Literary Style

• He employed direct prose, smooth and fresh.
• His writing maintained a cultivated urban register.
• His works describe the customs of the 14th-century community.

Vicent Ferrer (14th-15th Centuries)

A preacher par excellence, Ferrer traveled extensively from Valencia to Britain. He participated in major historical events, earning the trust of kings and popes.

The Role of Scribes

Scribes (Reportadors): These individuals made his work possible by transcribing his powerful sermons.

Bernat Metge (14th-15th Centuries)

Metge renewed Catalan prose with humanist ideas, notably in his work The Dream (Lo Somni). He utilized literature often for his own benefit.

Isabel de Villena (15th Century)

The only prominent female writer of the time, known for Vita Christi.

Characteristics of Vita Christi

• Describes scenes of the Gospel with pomp.
• Features scenes from domestic life.
• Abundant use of diminutives.

The Rise of Humanism

Humanism marked a shift from Theocentrism to Anthropocentrism, offering alternative ethical and aesthetic frameworks for society.

Early Vernacular Texts

Homilies d'Organyà (12th Century)

These manuscripts contain passages explaining parts of the Gospel. They were crucial in helping the congregation understand the Latin liturgy, bridging the gap between formal worship and vernacular comprehension.

Foundational Legal and Historical Documents

Establishment of the Kingdom of Valencia (13th Century Context)

The establishment of the new Christian kingdom required foundational legal texts:

• Furs (Charters): The constitution and fundamental law of the new kingdom.
• Llibre del Consolat de Mar (Book of the Consulate of the Sea): Maritime law designed to regulate transport and maritime trade across the Mediterranean.
• Royal Chancellery: Official documentation was redacted in Catalan (Romance), Aragonese, and Latin.

The Four Major Chronicles

These historical works justified the actions and legitimacy of the Royal Crown of Aragon:

Key Chroniclers and Works

• James I: Book of the Facts (Llibre dels Fets).
• Bernard Desclot: (13th Century).
• Ramon Muntaner: (13th-14th Centuries).
• Peter the Ceremonious: (14th Century).