Author
José Victorino Lastarria
1817-1888
José Victorino Lastarria (1817-1888) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by José Victorino Lastarria
Antaño i Ogaño: Novelas i Cuentos de la Vida Hispano-Americana
"Antaño i Ogaño: Novelas i Cuentos de la Vida Hispano-Americana" by Lastarria is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The work portrays various aspects of life in Hispanic America, highlighting themes of love, desire, and social struggles through richly crafted narratives. The opening story, "El Mendigo," introduces the character of Alvaro de Aguirre, a mendicant who carries a deep history and melancholy, setting the tone for the exploration of personal and societal issues in the collection. The opening of "Antaño i Ogaño" presents a chance encounter between the narrator and the titular mendigo alongside the Mapocho River, which becomes a catalyst for revealing the mendigo's tragic backstory. As the narrator attempts to engage the mendigo in conversation, Alvaro shares his life tale filled with hardship, betrayal, and lost love that deeply affects his present state. The poignant imagery used to describe the natural beauty surrounding the characters contrasts sharply with Alvaro's despair, effectively drawing readers into his plight while fostering an appreciation for the cultural vistas of Hispanic America.
La América, Tomo I
"La América, Tomo I" by José Victorino Lastarria is a political and social treatise written in the mid-19th century. The work focuses on the relationship and misunderstandings between Europe and Latin America, exploring issues of governance, culture, and social progress. Lastarria argues passionately for a recognition of the complexities and validity of Latin American societies while critiquing European perceptions and interventions. The opening of the work presents Lastarria's contention that Europe holds a prejudiced and narrow view of Latin America, dismissing its political and social advancements. He emphasizes the tendency of European powers to underestimate the Americas, viewing them only as sources of economic benefit, while ignoring the rich cultures and democratic progress within these nations. Lastarria's arguments are rooted in defending the dignity and potential of Latin American republics, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of the political philosophies that shape his thesis throughout the text.