Spanish Renaissance literature

Spanish Renaissance literature developed during the 15th and 16th centuries, influenced by Italy's cultural movements. This period emphasized humanism, focusing on human experiences and the revival of classical Greek and Roman ideas.

Spanish Renaissance poetry was shaped by two main traditions:

• Traditional poetry: Continued medieval forms like short verses and popular songs.
• Italian-influenced poetry: Introduced by poets such as Juan Boscán and Garcilaso de la Vega, this style adopted Italian forms like the sonnet and eleven-syllable lines. Themes included idealized love, nature, and classical mythology.

Two notable poetic schools emerged:

• Salmantine School: Represented by Fray Luis de León, known for concise language and philosophical themes.
• Sevillian School: Led by Fernando de Herrera, characterized by elaborate style and extensive compositions.

The era also saw significant religious writings:

• Asceticism: Focused on self-discipline and moral improvement.
• Mysticism: Explored personal experiences of divine union.

Key figures include:

• Santa Teresa de Jesús: Wrote about her spiritual journey in works like The Interior Castle.
• San Juan de la Cruz: Known for poems like Dark Night of the Soul, expressing the soul's longing for God.

Prose literature expanded with works such as:

• La Celestina by Fernando de Rojas: A blend of drama and narrative, depicting complex characters and social critique.
• Lazarillo de Tormes: An anonymous novel introducing the picaresque genre, portraying a young man's adventures and societal observations.

Theater evolved from religious plays to more secular themes. Early works included moral and allegorical plays, setting the stage for the flourishing of Spanish drama in the Golden Age.

This period laid the foundation for Spain's literary achievements, blending traditional forms with new humanist ideas.