Spanish Literature of the 18th Century: Enlightenment & Neoclassicism

The eighteenth century marked a significant period in Spanish literature, as it became a powerful medium for disseminating new ideas and reflecting the intellectual currents of the Enlightenment.

Prose

Prose predominated, often serving didactic purposes. Some authors incorporated narrative into their works, though their primary aim was not necessarily to write novels. Works like the Vida (Life) of Diego de Torres Villarroel exemplify this trend.

The essay genre was particularly well-suited for this period, as it facilitated the diffusion of new ideas. Notable essayists included:

• Benito Jerónimo Feijoo: His critical work aimed to eliminate errors and superstitions. His writings often adopted a conversational tone, developing a style that would later be recognized as the essay. His Teatro Crítico Universal (Universal Critical Theater) and Cartas Eruditas y Curiosas (Erudite and Curious Letters) showcase his erudition.
• Gaspar Melchor de Jovellanos: A versatile writer, he composed poems, plays (such as El delincuente honrado - The Honorable Delinquent, and Pelayo), and significant prose works, including Memoria sobre espectáculos y diversiones públicas (Memoir on Public Spectacles and Amusements) and Informe sobre la Ley Agraria (Report on the Agrarian Law).

Other Notable Prose Authors:

• José Cadalso: Known for his poetry collection Ocios de mi juventud (Leisure of My Youth). He also wrote two tragedies, Solaya and Don Sancho García. His major prose works include Cartas Marruecas (Moroccan Letters) and Noches lúgubres (Gloomy Nights), both written in dialogue form.
• Ignacio de Luzán: His Poética (Poetics) is a foundational text of Neoclassicism, advocating for a moderate and careful use of language, clarity, order, and proportion.

Poetry

While many authors continued to cultivate poetry reminiscent of the Golden Age, new poetic trends emerged, presenting several distinct forms:

• Illustrated Poetry: Focused on themes reflecting the Enlightenment mentality. Manuel José Quintana is a prominent figure.
• Didactic Poetry: Utilized poetry to convey new ideas, exemplified by the fables of Félix María de Samaniego.
• Neoclassical Poetry: Key figures include Leandro Fernández de Moratín, Manuel José Quintana, and Alberto Lista.
• Satirical Poetry: Notable practitioners include Leandro Fernández de Moratín, Félix María de Samaniego, and Gaspar Melchor de Jovellanos.

Theater

Eighteenth-century Spanish theater developed along two main lines:

Post-Baroque Theater

This style developed in the first half of the century, characterized by complicated intrigues and elaborate plots. Some playwrights introduced innovations, such as reducing and regularizing characters. Notable examples include Antonio de Zamora's El Convidado de Piedra (The Stone Guest) and José de Cañizares' Don Lucas del Cigarral (Don Lucas of Cigarral).

Neoclassical Theater

Neoclassical theater emerged in opposition to the Golden Age style. It aimed to move away from improbable plots and the popularization of archaic social and moral ideas. Proponents advocated for strict adherence to classical unities (time, place, action). This was a minority theater, often supported by the elite and power structures. Leandro Fernández de Moratín's El sí de las niñas (The Maiden's Consent) is a prime example.

Popular Theater (Comedia de Magia, Sainete)

The popular theater found success in genres like the comedia de magia (magic comedy), plays about saints and soldiers, and overly sentimental or tearful comedies. It often highlighted the habits and language of common people, aiming to amuse the audience through caricatures and lively dialogue. The most distinguished author was Ramón de la Cruz, a defender of theatrical purity. The majority of his works, such as El petimetre (The Fop) and La Manola (The Manola), are satires and parodies.