What role did Romanticism play in the revival of the Catalan language?

Romanticism played a crucial role in the revival of the Catalan language during the 19th century, particularly in regions like Mallorca. This artistic and cultural movement emphasized nationalism and regional identity, which inspired intellectuals and writers to reconnect with their cultural heritage. In Mallorca, figures like the poet and playwright Jacint Verdaguer and others began advocating for the use of Catalan in literature, fostering a renewed appreciation for the language among the populace.

The Romantic movement also coincided with a broader interest in folk traditions and local histories, encouraging the collection of oral stories, folk songs, and traditional customs, all of which were often expressed in the Catalan language. As Catalonia faced pressures from the dominant Spanish culture, the Romanticists sought to validate and celebrate their linguistic uniqueness, leading to a literary renaissance that established standard forms of written Catalan. This flowering of literature not only reaffirmed the cultural significance of Catalan but also galvanized political movements that aimed to protect and promote the language in educational and governmental contexts.

The resurgence of Catalan literature during this period laid the groundwork for the modern Catalan language revival, linking it to broader identities and movements in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, which continue to influence linguistic policies and cultural expressions to this day.