Aristocratic Age
The dissolution of the English Parliament by King Charles I in March 1629 created an atmosphere that would later influence literary themes of the time, particularly in terms of censorship and freedom of expression.
In France, the year was marked by the flourishing of the Baroque style in literature. Honoré d’Urfé died in 1625, but his L’Astrée, a pastoral romance, continued to be influential, with new editions and translations. The literary salons were thriving, promoting a culture of wit and eloquence that would lead to the classical French literature of the mid-17th century. Georges de Scudéry, although better known for his later works, was active during this time, contributing to the development of the French novel.
In Spain, the literary Golden Age was in full swing, though 1629 does not mark a major publication by Cervantes or Lope de Vega, both of whom were still alive and influencing the literary world. However, the year saw the publication of El Criticón by Baltasar Gracián, which would grow in recognition over time, offering a critique of Spanish society through allegory.
In Italy, literature continued to reflect the transition to the Baroque. Giambattista Marino’s Adone had been published earlier in the decade, but his influence was still strong, moving poetry towards more elaborate and sensuous forms. The year also witnessed the publication of La Secchia Rapita by Alessandro Tassoni, a mock-heroic epic that humorously recounted a battle over a bucket, showcasing the playful side of Italian literature.
In Japan, the Edo period was well underway, but specific literary works from 1629 are less documented. However, the popularity of haikai no renga (linked verse) continued, setting the stage for the later development of haiku. Matsuo Basho, the famous haiku poet, was a child at this time, but the groundwork for his later poetry was being laid by the cultural milieu of the period.
In the Mughal Empire (India), Persian literature was flourishing under the patronage of the Mughal emperors. Although no specific works from 1629 stand out, poets like Bedil were active, contributing to the rich tapestry of Persian poetry in India.