Understanding Modernism and the Generation of 1898

Modernism and the Generation of '98

Both Modernism and the Generation of '98 emerged from the crisis of bourgeois consciousness in the late nineteenth century. These movements sought a new literary and artistic language capable of expressing a more refined, personal, and intimate vision of the world. Contemporary criticism often views these not as antithetical, but as part of the same revivalist trend, frequently grouped under the concept of the Generation of the Century.

Key Artistic Influences

• Impressionism: A partial selection of significant features used to suggest reality, capturing the essential and eternal moment with an agile style.
• Expressionism: A distortion of reality through hyperbolic and grotesque perspectives.
• Parnassianism: Characterized by formal perfection and the cult of outer beauty, focusing on Greek myths and exotic environments.

Modernism: Aesthetic Renovation

Modernism represents an aesthetic renovation that synthesizes the innovative attitudes of the late nineteenth century, reacting against the materialism and utilitarian spirit of the era. Its literary ideal is to express beauty through a new sensitivity and language, drawing from various Spanish and foreign influences, particularly French poetry.

Core Currents of Modernism

• Parnassianism: Worships beauty and defends "art for art's sake," with a preference for mythological, biblical, exotic, and historical elements.
• Symbolism: Uses symbols to suggest music and art.

Regional Developments

• Hispanic American Modernism: Led by precursors José Martí and Rubén Darío. Darío's work evolved from formal Modernism to a more intimate style focused on American themes.
• Modernism in Spain: Gained momentum following visits by Rubén Darío. Spanish Modernism is generally less Parnassian and more symbolic. Key representatives include Manuel Machado, Valle-Inclán, Juan Ramón Jiménez, and Antonio Machado.