Spanish Literature: Generation of '98 and Generation of '27
Generation of '98
Following the Spanish military disaster and the loss of the final colonies in 1898—including the Philippines and Cuba—a movement emerged as a protest against the habits of Spanish society. Writers were driven by patriotic idealism and adopted a critical analysis of human problems.
Key characteristics of this generation include:
- National pessimism
- The Europeanization of Spain
- Stylistic sobriety
- Self-education
These authors sought the essence of Spain, the values of the fatherland, and the roots of current problems. The austere Castilian landscape reflects the soul they sought; they toured the plateau of Castile, meticulously describing the poverty of the people, their simplicity, and the extreme climate to capture the spirit of the nation.
One of the significant forerunners of this literary movement, known for his critical attitude, was the Granadan Ángel Ganivet.
Key Authors and Works
- Miguel de Unamuno: La tía Tula, Mist, Soledad, San Manuel Bueno, Mártir
- Azorín: Classic and Modern, Peoples
- Pío Baroja: The Search, Weed, The Tree of Science
- Antonio Machado: Solitude, Campos de Castilla
- Valle-Inclán: Passenger, Light of Bohemia
Generation of '27
This name refers to a group of writers whose work, primarily lyrical, coalesced around 1927, marking the tercentenary of the death of Góngora. This generation is characterized by their admiration for the poetry of Juan Ramón Jiménez, whom they considered their teacher.
Core features of their work include:
- A search for both classical language and popular lyrical forms (ballads, songbooks)
- Engagement with contemporary avant-garde movements
- A focus on universal human themes: love, death, fate, and popular roots
The literature of this group is widely considered the New Golden Age of Spanish Lyric.
Key Authors and Works
- Federico García Lorca: Gypsy Ballads, Blood Wedding, Language of Flowers
- Dámaso Alonso: Children of Wrath
- Rafael Alberti: Marinero en tierra, La amante, Cal y canto
- Vicente Aleixandre: Espadas como labios, Scope
- Miguel Hernández: Wind of the Town, Expert on Moon