Historia de la literatura y del arte dramático en España, tomo II

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

25988

Title

Historia de la literatura y del arte dramático en España, tomo II

Language

es

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

This volume offers a sweeping historical survey of Spanish dramatic literature and art, focusing on the Golden Age from 1590 to the early 18th century. Translated from German by Eduardo de Mier, it explores the political and religious contexts of Spain's theatrical flourishing, the life of Lope de Vega, and the enduring legacy of Cervantes.

Summary up to 500 words

Adolf Friedrich von Schack's *Historia de la literatura y del arte dramático en España, tomo II* offers a comprehensive examination of the Spanish theater's evolution during its Golden Age, spanning from the late 16th century to the early 18th. The volume serves as both a critical analysis and a historical record, arguing that Spanish drama remains a vital source of inspiration, superior to contemporary foreign works. Schack meticulously details the political climate under Philip II, noting how the monarch's fanatical policies and the Inquisition, while oppressive, coexisted with a flourishing national spirit that preserved Spain's cultural brilliance despite political decline. The text provides an extensive biographical sketch of Miguel de Cervantes, highlighting his military service at the Battle of Lepanto, where he was severely wounded, and his early poetic endeavors. Schack praises the richness of Spanish letters, emphasizing how art and literature thrived even as the nation faced external threats and internal despotism. He critiques the excesses of religious fanaticism while celebrating the national character that resisted becoming mere slaves to arbitrary power. Schack analyzes various dramatic forms, including *autos sacramentales*, *comedias de capa y espada*, and *comedias de santos*. He discusses the role of actors, stage design, and metric structures like the *redondilla* and *romance*. The work includes detailed discussions on the lives of major playwrights, particularly Lope de Vega, who revolutionized comedy with his 'New Art,' and Tirso de Molina. Schack also explores the influence of antiquity, religious beliefs, and romantic traditions on Spanish poetry and drama. The volume preserves manuscripts and titles from major collections, such as those of the Duke of Osuna, providing a rich archive of dramatic works. Schack notes the originality of Spanish letters, contrasting the Spanish theater with the English and Italian stages. He argues that the Spanish spirit remained noble and independent, with a glorious past illuminating the present. Ultimately, the work urges readers to appreciate their own national heritage, asserting that the dramatic resources of Spain are inexhaustible and that contemporary poets should look inward rather than seeking inspiration abroad. The text stands as a testament to the enduring power of Spanish drama and the resilience of its cultural identity.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Drama
• History