Spanish Neoclassical Literature and 18th Century Prose

18th Century Spanish Prose

During the first half of the century, prose was dominated by the lives of saints, sermons, and historical books. The most prominent figure was Diego de Torres Villarroel, known for his work Vida, ascendencia, nacimiento, crianza y aventuras del doctor don Diego de Torres Villarroel.

The Neoclassical Period and the Essay

By mid-century, the Neoclassical period began. The essay emerged with a free, modern language structure and reports on social reflections. These works generally fell into two categories:

• Didactic and Encyclopedic: Focused on humanitarian and educational goals.
• Social and Critical: Aimed at reforming society.

Prominent Essayists

• Fray Benito Jerónimo Feijoo: Notable for Teatro crítico universal and Cartas eruditas y curiosas.
• Gaspar Melchor de Jovellanos: He wrote essays to improve the country's cultural education. Key works include Memoria para el arreglo de la policía de los espectáculos and Informe sobre la Ley Agraria.

Social Criticism, Journalism, and Fiction

Criticism was widely used at the time to satirize vices or habits. One of its most prominent representatives was José Cadalso, whose work Cartas marruecas reviewed the most concerning aspects of Spanish society at the time.

Journalism also flourished with publications like El Censor and El Pensador. In prose fiction, Father Isla stands out for his work Historia del famoso predicador fray Gerundio de Campazas, alias Zotes.

Neoclassical Theater in Spain

Key Features of Neoclassical Drama

• Total separation of genres: Tragedy and comedy were never mixed.
• The Three Units: Submission to the classical rule of a single action, in one place, within 24 hours.
• Educational Purpose: Theater was meant to instruct the public.
• Verisimilitude: Plots had to be plausible and realistic.
• Structure: Plays were typically organized into three acts.

Main Genres and Authors

Neoclassical Tragedy

This genre addressed themes of classical antiquity or national history. Notable works include Hormesinda by Nicolás Fernández de Moratín and Raquel by Vicente García de la Huerta.

Neoclassical Comedy

Leandro Fernández de Moratín was the leading figure. He traveled across Europe and participated in theater reform, advocating for plain, careful language. His masterpieces include El sí de las niñas, El viejo y la niña, El barón, and La mojigata.

Sainetes (Short Farces)

Don Ramón de la Cruz excelled in this genre. His most important sketches include La Plaza Mayor por Navidad and Manolo.