Pedro Calderon de la Barca Quotes

A collection of quotes by Pedro Calderon de la Barca.

Pedro Calderón de la Barca (1600-1681) was a renowned Spanish playwright and poet of the Baroque era. Born in Madrid, Spain, Calderón de la Barca is often hailed as one of the greatest dramatists in the Spanish language and a key figure in Spanish Golden Age literature.

Calderón de la Barca began his education at the Jesuit school of the Imperial College in Madrid, where his talent for writing and drama quickly became apparent. He went on to study law at the University of Alcalá de Henares, but his passion for literature led him to pursue a career in writing instead.

Known for his vast theatrical output, Calderón de la Barca authored over 120 plays, exploring various themes such as honor, love, religion, and morality. His most famous works include "Life is a Dream" (La vida es sueño), "The Mayor of Zalamea" (El alcalde de Zalamea), and "The Great Theatre of the World" (El gran teatro del mundo). These plays are characterized by their deep philosophical and moral undertones, intricate plots, and complex characters.

Calderón de la Barca's works often embodied the ideals and values of the Counter-Reformation, emphasizing the importance of faith and divine providence. He had a significant influence on European theater and his plays were performed regularly in Spain and abroad.

Pedro Calderón de la Barca's contributions to Spanish literature and theater have made him an enduring figure in literary history. His works continue to be celebrated and studied, cementing his legacy as a masterful playwright and poet.