Literary Periods to Know for AP Spanish Literature

Literary periods in Spanish literature reflect cultural shifts and societal changes. From the religious influence of the Medieval Period to the modern themes of globalization, each era showcases unique styles, key authors, and significant themes that shape the literary landscape.

1. Medieval Period (Edad Media)

   • Characterized by the influence of the Catholic Church and feudalism.
   • Notable works include "Cantar de los Cantares" and "El Cid."
   • Emphasis on oral tradition, chivalric themes, and moral lessons.

2. Renaissance (Renacimiento)

   • Marked by a revival of classical learning and humanism.
   • Key figures include Garcilaso de la Vega and Fray Luis de León.
   • Focus on individualism, nature, and the beauty of the human experience.

3. Baroque (Barroco)

   • Known for its complexity, ornamentation, and emotional intensity.
   • Prominent authors include Luis de Góngora and Francisco de Quevedo.
   • Themes often explore the contrast between reality and illusion, life and death.

4. Neoclassicism (Neoclasicismo)

   • Emphasized reason, order, and adherence to classical forms.
   • Influential writers include José Cadalso and Leandro Fernández de Moratín.
   • Focus on moral lessons, clarity, and the importance of societal norms.

5. Romanticism (Romanticismo)

   • Celebrated emotion, nature, and individualism, often in reaction to Neoclassicism.
   • Key figures include Gustavo Adolfo Bécquer and José de Espronceda.
   • Themes often include the sublime, the supernatural, and the exploration of the self.

6. Realism and Naturalism (Realismo y Naturalismo)

   • Focused on depicting everyday life and social issues with accuracy.
   • Notable authors include Benito Pérez Galdós and Emilia Pardo Bazán.
   • Naturalism extends realism by emphasizing the influence of environment and heredity.

7. Modernism (Modernismo)

   • A literary movement that sought to break from traditional forms and explore new styles.
   • Key figures include Rubén Darío and José Martí.
   • Themes often include the search for identity, beauty, and the exploration of the inner self.

8. Generation of '98 (Generación del 98)

   • A group of writers responding to Spain's loss in the Spanish-American War.
   • Notable authors include Miguel de Unamuno and Antonio Machado.
   • Themes often focus on existentialism, national identity, and social critique.

9. Vanguardism (Vanguardismo)

   • Characterized by experimentation and a break from established norms.
   • Influential movements include Surrealism and Futurism.
   • Key figures include Pablo Neruda and Vicente Huidobro, exploring new forms and ideas.

10. Contemporary Period (Época Contemporánea)

• Encompasses a wide range of styles and themes reflecting modern society.
• Notable authors include Gabriel García Márquez and Mario Vargas Llosa.
• Themes often include globalization, identity, and the impact of technology on life.