Romanian literature

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Romanian literature refers to the body of literary works produced by Romanian authors, written primarily in the Romanian language. It encompasses a wide range of genres, including poetry, prose, and drama, and has evolved through various historical periods, reflecting the cultural and social changes in Romania.

Historical Overview

Early Literature

The earliest examples of Romanian literature date back to the 16th century, with religious texts and chronicles written in Old Church Slavonic and later in Romanian. Notable early works include the Codex Neagoeanus and the Letopisețul Țării Moldovei by Grigore Ureche.

Enlightenment and National Awakening

The 18th and 19th centuries saw the rise of the Enlightenment and the National Awakening in Romanian literature. Key figures from this period include Dimitrie Cantemir, who wrote the first history of Romania, and Ion Heliade Rădulescu, a prominent poet and journalist.

19th Century

The 19th century was a period of significant development in Romanian literature, marked by the works of Mihai Eminescu, often considered Romania's national poet. Other important writers from this era include Ion Creangă, known for his stories and memoirs, and Ion Luca Caragiale, a playwright and satirist.

20th Century

The 20th century brought modernism and avant-garde movements to Romanian literature. Notable authors from this period include Lucian Blaga, a philosopher and poet, and Mircea Eliade, a historian of religion and novelist. The communist regime that took power after World War II imposed strict censorship, but some writers, such as Marin Preda and Nichita Stănescu, managed to produce significant works.

Contemporary Literature

Contemporary Romanian literature is diverse and dynamic, with authors like Mircea Cărtărescu gaining international recognition. The post-communist period has allowed for greater freedom of expression and the exploration of new themes and styles.

Genres

Poetry

Romanian poetry has a rich tradition, with contributions from poets like George Coșbuc, Tudor Arghezi, and Ana Blandiana. The themes often explore nature, love, and national identity.

Prose

Romanian prose includes novels, short stories, and essays. Notable novelists include Liviu Rebreanu, known for his social novels, and Herta Müller, a Nobel Prize-winning author.

Drama

Romanian drama has produced significant playwrights such as Eugène Ionesco, a leading figure in the Theatre of the Absurd, and Marin Sorescu, known for his innovative plays.

Related Pages

• Romanian language
• Romania
• Mihai Eminescu
• Ion Luca Caragiale
• Mircea Eliade
• Herta Müller
• Eugène Ionesco

See Also

• List of Romanian writers
• Romanian culture
• History of Romania