égloga

An égloga is a short, pastoral poem, typically featuring shepherds or rustic characters engaged in conversation or song. The term originates from the Greek word "elegeia," meaning a lament, although églogas are not necessarily mournful. They often explore themes of love, nature, and the simple life, presenting an idealized view of rural existence. The characters, while appearing to be ordinary rustics, often engage in sophisticated discourse and express complex emotions.

Historically, the égloga reached its peak of popularity during the Renaissance and Baroque periods. The Roman poet Virgil is credited with popularizing the form with his Eclogues, which served as a model for subsequent writers. In Spanish literature, Garcilaso de la Vega is a prominent figure associated with the égloga, imbuing his poems with lyrical beauty and emotional depth. Other notable exponents include Italian poets like Petrarch and Sannazaro. The genre’s emphasis on idealized nature and melancholic reflections on love made it a beloved form for poets seeking to escape the complexities of urban life and explore themes of beauty and sentiment. While its prominence has waned, the égloga's influence can still be seen in later pastoral and lyrical poetry.