Romanticism Movement: Features and Literary Figures

Romanticism: A Revolutionary Cultural Movement

Romanticism is a cultural and political movement that originated in Germany and the United Kingdom in the late eighteenth century. It arose as a revolutionary reaction against the rationalism of the Enlightenment and Classicism, prioritizing feeling.

Key Features of Romanticism

A key feature is the break with classical tradition based on a routine set of rules. Core tenets include:

• The consciousness of self as an autonomous and fantastic entity.
• The primacy of the creative genius over the Universe itself.
• The supremacy of feeling against neoclassical reason.
• Strong nationalistic tendencies.
• A stance of liberalism against despotism.
• Emphasis on originality over classical imitation.
• Valuing the imperfect, unfinished, and open work over the perfect, completed, and closed work.

The movement developed mainly in the first half of the nineteenth century.

Romantic Themes in Literature

Major themes prominent in Romantic literature include:

• The author's personal feelings.
• The revolt and evasion from reality.
• Nature and the landscape.

Romantic Prose and Poetry Figures

Romantic Poetry

Romantic Poetry is exemplified by figures such as Espronceda Joseph (1808–1842), author of The Salamanca Student.

Two post-Romantic poets include Rosalía de Castro and Bécquer.

Romantic Prose

Larra and Bécquer contributed significantly to Romantic Prose.

Mariano José de Larra

Mariano José de Larra (1809–1837) is distinguished by his critical personality. He was a great journalist of the nineteenth century.

The most important of his works are the newspaper articles, which were classified into three parts:

1. Articles of Customs: These feature critical themes addressing various aspects and customs of Spanish society of the time.
2. Articles of Politics: Larra combated absolutism and intransigence, commending progress, tolerance, and freedom.
3. Literary Criticism.

Gustavo Adolfo Bécquer

Gustavo Adolfo Bécquer wrote the "Legends," 28 short stories in prose poetry. Based on traditions or folk tales, these stories are recreated in the Romantic style. Some of the best-known works are: "The Ray Moon," "Mount of Animas," and "Maese Pérez Organist."

Core Romantic Ideals

The movement emphasized:

• Individual Subjectivism: Above any other reality are the self's feelings and personal emotions; the personality of each individual. The ideals and aspirations of the 'I' are central to the life and works of the Romantic artist.
• Passion for Freedom: This is reflected in every aspect of the time, from the political to artistic creation. Literature reflects freedom in opposition to any rule.
• Nationalism: Exalting the popular values of each country.