Spanish Generation of '98: Machado, Unamuno, Baroja

The Spanish Generation of '98

Author: Antonio Machado (1875-1939) wrote prose and drama, stressing his role as a poet. Initially modernist (Soledades, Galerías y Otros Poemas, 1907), his modernism is intimate, with existential angst as a prominent theme. His works feature decadent landscapes (fountains, gardens) and symbolism (late treadmill).

Campos de Castilla (1912) addresses political and social issues, using the Castilian landscape, its inhabitants, and its history to critique Spanish conduct (envy of those who don't work, praise for those who strive). Other poems lament his wife's death and include philosophical reflections.

Miguel de Unamuno (1864-1946) wrote essays, novels, poetry, and drama.

Topics Cultivated:

• Spain's backwardness in social, political, and scientific spheres.
• Existential angst: religious faith versus reason, the meaning of existence.

Key Works:

• Essays: The Agony of Christianity
• Novels: San Manuel Bueno, Martyr (characterized by limited action and a dominance of dialogues and monologues).

Pio Baroja (1872-1956) was a prolific novelist. His novels reflect his ideas about existence, viewing it as a tough fight for survival in a hostile world. His style is characterized by brief, concise descriptions and agile dialogues.

Key Works:

• The Tree of Science
• The Search

The Writers of the Century

In the final years of the nineteenth century, the modernists included writers known as the Generation of '98.

The Authors:

Antonio Machado, Miguel de Unamuno, Pio Baroja, José Martínez Ruiz 'Azorín', Ramón del Valle-Inclán

Topics:

1. Spain: From the late nineteenth century, Spain experienced a political, social, economic, and moral crisis, culminating in '98 (the year it lost its last colonies: Cuba, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines). Writers reacted to this situation, reflecting on its causes and seeking solutions. They focused on the Spanish, especially Castilian, identity (its landscapes and its people).
2. Existence: These authors reflected on issues like the fate of man, the meaning of life, death, time, and religion.

Literary Genres and Styles:

The preferred genre of these authors was the essay. They also wrote poetry, novels, and theater. Their style was characterized by simplicity and expressive sobriety.