Description
From Idealism to Oblivion
Book summary
This work uncovers the literary side of Pere Antoni Torres Jordi, one of the most prominent politicians from Tarragona in the 19th century. Through its pages, the reader will get to know a passionate, liberal, and romantic poet and playwright who combined his political career with an intense theatrical and journalistic production. The book reconstructs his trajectory from the September Revolution of 1868 to his final years, offering a complete vision of a multifaceted figure who is essential for understanding the culture and politics of the era.
What is it about?
The book explores the life and work of Pere Antoni Torres Jordi (Tarragona, 1843 - l'Espluga de Francolí, 1901), a key politician and writer of the 19th century. His political career began under the guidance of General Prim and the patronage of Balaguer and Sagasta. He actively participated in the September Revolution of 1868 and held important positions during the liberal governments of the last third of the century, such as civil governor of several provinces and director general of Charity and Health.
In the literary sphere, he stood out as a playwright with more than fifteen works that were very well received by the public, to the point that Pitarra and Guimerà vied to premiere some of his dramas in their projects to revitalize Catalan theater. He triumphed in poetry from a very young age, but his most important work was developed in journalism: he was the first director of La Vanguardia (1881) and founded the newspaper La Opinión (1875) in Tarragona, which survived until after his death. In addition, he founded the Balneari de les Masies in l'Espluga de Francolí.
Main themes
- Political and literary biography of Pere Antoni Torres Jordi.
- 19th-century Catalan theater and the rivalry between Pitarra and Guimerà.
- Journalism as a tool for political and cultural influence.
- Political career during the Democratic Sexennium and the Restoration.
- The figure of the romantic and liberal intellectual in 19th-century Spain.
Who is it recommended for?
This book is aimed at readers interested in the political and cultural history of 19th-century Catalonia and Spain, as well as scholars of Catalan literature, theater, and journalism. It will also be of great interest to those who want to learn about the figure of a multifaceted character who combined political action with literary creation and journalistic enterprise.
What this book contributes
- A detailed and documented portrait of a key and often forgotten figure of Catalan culture and politics.
- A view of the theatrical and journalistic life of 19th-century Barcelona and Tarragona.
- Historical context on the transition from romanticism to realism in Catalan literature.
- Information on the ins and outs of liberal politics during the Restoration.
Technical specifications
- Author: JOSEP M. VALLÒS I MARTI
- Publisher: COSSET·NIA
- Language: Catalan
- Topic: BIOGRAPHY: LITERARY
- Collection: PERFILS
- Binding: Paperback
- Publication date: September 2007
- Number of pages: 304
- Weight: 752 g
Editorial review
This is a necessary biography that rescues Pere Antoni Torres Jordi from oblivion, a figure who exemplifies the connection between literature, journalism, and politics in the 19th century. The work offers a rigorous and accessible study, ideal for both specialists and fans of cultural history. Its value lies in bringing back to light a character who, despite his relevance, has remained in the background of collective memory.