ABSTRACT
Spanish theologians have always commanded respect at Rome, but the greatest religious writers appeal rather to the heart than to the intellect; the fate of Luis de Leon and many others sufficed to check candid criticism in this direction, even by persons of orthodox opinions. Besides the moral and political treatises of Quevedo, two works on statecraft and two on criticism may be mentioned as specimens of the didactic writing during the Golden Age. In style the Reloj de Principes, like its author’s novels, satires, and moral works, is affected; it is spoiled by an unnecessary display of the learning and a laboured effort to acquire brilliant effect. Spanish is richer in proverbs than any other language. Proverbs form the titles of many celebrated plays, and the works of most of the best Spanish writers are freely spiced with them.
