Medieval Spanish Prose: From Alfonso X to Don Juan Manuel
Classified in Latin
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Medieval Spanish Prose
Prose Development in the Middle Ages
Latin was initially favored for written expression. However, Castilian steadily gained recognition for literary and scholarly works. Alfonso X and Don Juan Manuel in the 14th century solidified Castilian's role as a versatile language for diverse content.
The Prose of Alfonso X the Wise (13th Century)
Amidst the Reconquista, Alfonso X, though sometimes criticized for his limited military involvement, is recognized for his cultural contributions. He championed the arts and sciences, notably translating and adapting Arabic and Hebrew works. One of Alfonso X's key achievements was establishing Castilian as the official language and fostering the Toledo School of Translators. This ensured a common language for cultural dissemination, overcoming the barrier of Latin. The Toledo School, however, declined after Alfonso X's death.
His works span diverse themes:
- Historical (e.g., General History)
- Scientific (e.g., Books of Knowledge)
- Legal (e.g., Seven Parts)
- Religious (e.g., Cantigas de Santa Maria)
- Games (e.g., Book of Chess)
Book of Good Love
Originally titled Book of the Archpriest, Ramón Menéndez Pidal proposed the current title.
Date of Composition
Between 1330 and 1343.
The author, identified as Juan Ruiz, was the Archpriest of Hita (Guadalajara).
Structure
The book is a collection of diverse topics and genres, skillfully unified despite their variety. It includes:
- A prologue in prose, styled as a sermon on love.
- A supposedly autobiographical fictional narrative.
- Examples used to illustrate teachings.
- A burlesque narrative, moral reflections, satire, and lyrical poems.
Count Lucanor
Composed in 1335, this work comprises fifty-one stories. Patronio, Count Lucanor's advisor, offers counsel through stories. The Count presents a problem, and Patronio responds with a relevant tale, providing a lesson. Don Juan Manuel explains the inclusion of each story and summarizes its moral.
Lazarillo de Tormes
The protagonist narrates his life, recounting his upbringing with dishonorable parents, petty thefts, and realistic events.