Quevedo

Definition

Francisco de Quevedo was a prominent Spanish writer of the 17th century, known for his sharp wit, satirical poetry, and contributions to the Spanish Golden Age of literature. He often engaged in fierce literary rivalries, particularly with contemporaries like Luis de Góngora, and his works reflect a deep understanding of human nature and social issues during his time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Quevedo was born on September 14, 1580, in Madrid and became known for his intellectual prowess and sharp tongue.
2. His poetry often dealt with themes of love, death, and the folly of mankind, using satire to comment on the society of his day.
3. Quevedo's famous work 'La vida del Buscón' is a picaresque novel that portrays the adventures of a cunning rogue in Spanish society.
4. He was also a skilled philosopher and politician, engaging in various political debates and serving in several government positions throughout his life.
5. Quevedo's legacy is preserved through his extensive body of work, which includes sonnets, essays, and prose that continue to influence modern Spanish literature.

Review Questions

• How did Quevedo's rivalry with Góngora reflect the literary trends of the Spanish Golden Age?
  • Quevedo's rivalry with Góngora exemplified the fierce competition among poets during the Spanish Golden Age. Their contrasting styles—Quevedo's direct and satirical approach versus Góngora's ornate Baroque style—highlighted the diverse literary movements of the time. This rivalry not only fueled their individual creativity but also contributed to the rich tapestry of Spanish literature by pushing boundaries and encouraging innovation among their contemporaries.
• In what ways did Quevedo's use of satire impact societal perceptions during his lifetime?
  • Quevedo's use of satire had a significant impact on societal perceptions by challenging norms and exposing the hypocrisy of various social classes and institutions. His biting humor and sharp critiques resonated with readers, making them reflect on their values and behaviors. By addressing topics like corruption, love, and mortality through satire, Quevedo not only entertained but also provoked thought about the human condition in a turbulent period of Spanish history.
• Evaluate how Quevedo's literary techniques contribute to our understanding of human nature and societal issues in 17th-century Spain.
  • Quevedo's literary techniques, particularly his use of satire and vivid imagery, allow readers to gain profound insights into human nature and societal issues prevalent in 17th-century Spain. By dissecting themes such as vanity, hypocrisy, and mortality through poetic forms like sonnets and narrative prose, he captured the complexities of his characters and their contexts. This exploration sheds light on not only individual motivations but also broader cultural and social dynamics at play during the Spanish Golden Age, offering timeless reflections on humanity.

Related terms

Spanish Golden Age:

A period of flourishing in arts and literature in Spain from the late 15th century to the early 17th century, marked by significant achievements from writers like Quevedo and Cervantes.

Góngora:

Luis de Góngora was a contemporary poet and rival of Quevedo, known for his elaborate style and the Baroque movement in literature, which Quevedo often criticized.

Satire:

A literary technique that uses humor, irony, or ridicule to criticize or mock individuals, institutions, or societal norms, extensively employed by Quevedo in his works.