Blood Novels: Gender, Caste, and Race in Spanish Realism

In the late 19th century, Spanish writers used blood as a significant theme in their fiction, challenging the notion that it no longer played a role in social hierarchies. Julia H. Chang's book "Blood Novels" explores this fascination with blood, its cultural and literary significance, and how it probes the limits of realism. It critically engages with feminist theory, theories of race and whiteness, literary criticism, and medical literature to argue that blood should be treated as a critical analytic tool that sheds new light on Spanish realism and challenges our understanding of gendered and racialized embodiment in Spain.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 06 October 2022
Publisher: University of Toronto Press

In the late 19th century, a remarkable trio of Spanish writers emerged as the preeminent voices of their time: Juan Valera, Leopoldo Alas, and Benito Pérez Galdós. These literary giants, known as the "Miguel de Cervantes of Spain," breathed new life into the art of storytelling by making blood a central theme in their works. Their novels, often referred to as "blood novels," delved into the complex interplay of culture, literature, and societal hierarchies, challenging the prevailing notion that blood had lost its significance in shaping social dynamics.

Through the lens of "blood novels," Julia H. Chang explores the profound cultural and literary significance of blood. By examining fictional works within this genre, she uncovers a shared fascination with blood that pushes the boundaries of realism. Blood, as both a material reality and a metaphorical force, becomes a catalyst for probing the depths of human experience.

Chang's study situates the literature within broader cultural and theoretical debates, shedding light on the aesthetic contours of material blood. She delves into how bleeding is influenced by factors such as gender, caste, and race, highlighting the ways in which these social constructs shape the experiences of individuals and communities. By critically engaging with feminist theory, theories of race and whiteness, literary criticism, and medical literature, Chang makes a compelling case for treating blood as a critical analytic tool that not only sheds new light on Spanish realism but also challenges our understanding of gendered and racialized embodiment in Spain.

Through their innovative approach, Valera, Alas, and Galdós not only revolutionized the art of storytelling but also left an indelible mark on Spanish literature and culture. Their "blood novels" continue to resonate with readers worldwide, reminding us of the power of storytelling to explore the complexities of human existence and challenge our preconceptions.

Weight: 460g
Dimension: 235 x 159 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781487543013