A Companion to Calderon de la Barca

Pedro Calderón de la Barca (1600-1681) is one of the most important dramatists of the Spanish Golden Age, known for his stirring dramas and comedies. This Companion provides a comprehensive study of his life, work, and legacy, exploring his stagecraft, corpus, and reception up to the twenty-first century. It also emphasizes his comic works, which are as amusing as they are clever.

Format: Hardback
Length: 414 pages
Publication date: 19 November 2021
Publisher: Boydell & Brewer Ltd

Pedro Calderón de la Barca, a towering figure in the Spanish Golden Age of drama, stands as one of the most significant and influential playwrights of all time. Spanning the seventeenth century, his unparalleled artistry and profound impact have left an indelible mark on the world of literature. Widely regarded as Spain's preeminent and most esteemed playwright, Calderón's works continue to be staged and translated, resonating with audiences across generations. With an astonishing output of approximately 120 plays, encompassing diverse styles, Calderón is celebrated for his stirring dramas. These masterpieces are characterized by powerful poetry, meticulously crafted dramatic structures, and a vibrant intellectual energy that illuminates the age's profound ontological, eschatological, and political concerns. Through his plays, Calderón seamlessly blends these perennial themes with captivating storylines, creating works that defy definitive interpretation yet remain deeply compelling.

However, it is important to recognize that Calderón's comedic prowess deserves equal acclaim. Often mistakenly pigeonholed as a dour and cerebral conservative, his comic works are both amusing and ingeniously clever. This Companion, the first comprehensive study of Calderón in English, aims to shed light on the multifaceted nature of this remarkable playwright. Written by esteemed international comedia specialists, its chapters offer a comprehensive introduction to Calderón's life, work, and enduring legacy. They delve into his intellectual, social, moral, and literary contexts, exploring his stagecraft, corpus, and reception within and beyond the Hispanic world. Special attention is given to his renowned masterpiece, La vida es sueño, which has become a staple on university syllabi, and to his controversial wife-murder plays, which continue to spark debate and fascination.

In conclusion, Pedro Calderón de la Barca is a towering figure in the world of drama, whose unparalleled artistry and profound impact have shaped the literary landscape for centuries. Through his stirring dramas and witty comedies, Calderón has left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of audiences worldwide. This Companion serves as a valuable resource for scholars, students, and enthusiasts alike, providing a comprehensive and accessible exploration of his life, work, and lasting legacy.

Weight: 746g
Dimension: 163 x 240 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781855663152