gongorismo

Gongorismo, also known as culteranismo or barroco español, was a literary style that flourished in Spain during the late 16th and early 17th centuries. It is characterized by a highly ornate and complex use of language, with a focus on elaborate metaphors, allusions to classical mythology, and a sophisticated vocabulary. The term "gongorismo" derives from Luis de Góngora y Argote, a prominent poet who exemplified this style.

The primary goal of gongorismo was to elevate the language of poetry to a level of intellectual and aesthetic sophistication. This was achieved through a deliberate departure from everyday speech, employing artificial syntax, neologisms, and obscure references. The effect was often a dense and challenging text that required considerable learning and effort from the reader to fully comprehend. While admired by some for its artistic ambition and richness, gongorismo was also criticized by contemporaries for its perceived artificiality and obscurity. Rivals of Góngora, such as Francisco de Quevedo, engaged in a literary feud that highlighted the contrasting styles and philosophies of the era. Despite its detractors, gongorismo left a significant mark on Spanish literature, influencing subsequent poetic traditions and contributing to the vibrant literary landscape of the Baroque period. Its emphasis on form and intricate expression continues to be a subject of study and debate among literary scholars.