Glossary
Abuelo Blanco
A symbolic character in "Dos Abuelos" representing the white plantation owner, the oppressive colonial regime, and the exploitation of enslaved people.
Example:
The Abuelo Blanco symbolizes the privilege and power associated with the colonial past in Cuba.
Abuelo Negro
A symbolic character in "Dos Abuelos" representing African heritage, the suffering of enslaved people, and their enduring strength.
Example:
The Abuelo Negro in the poem embodies the collective memory and resilience of the African diaspora.
Afro-Cuban literature
A genre of literature that explores the experiences, culture, and history of people of African descent in Cuba.
Example:
"Dos Abuelos" is a cornerstone of Afro-Cuban literature, reflecting the unique blend of African and European influences on the island.
Aliteración
The repetition of initial consonant sounds in words that are close together, used to create rhythm or emphasize certain words.
Example:
The phrase "galeón ardiendo en oro" uses aliteración with the repeated 'g' sound, enhancing the imagery of the burning ship.
Apartes
Lines in a poem or play that are addressed to an audience or a natural element, often revealing a character's inner thoughts or providing commentary.
Example:
The line "Oh puro sol repujado" functions as an aparte, directly addressing the sun and highlighting its cultural significance.
Colonization
The process by which a foreign power establishes control over a territory and its people, often exploiting resources and imposing its culture.
Example:
The oppressive regime of colonization in Cuba led to the exploitation of land and people, a theme central to Guillén's work.
El tiempo y el espacio
A major AP Spanish Literature theme examining how historical periods, geographical locations, and the passage of time influence characters, events, and cultural identity.
Example:
Guillén skillfully weaves together historical timeframes and geographic locations, illustrating the lasting impact of history on the present, a key aspect of el tiempo y el espacio.
Elementos auditivos
The use of sound imagery or onomatopoeia in literature to engage the reader's sense of hearing.
Example:
The "tambor de cuero y madera" provides strong elementos auditivos, allowing the reader to hear the ancestral drumbeat.
Estribillo
A refrain; a word, phrase, line, or group of lines repeated at intervals in a poem or song.
Example:
The powerful estribillo "¡Me muero!" emphasizes the profound suffering experienced by the characters.
Gradación
A rhetorical device where a series of words or phrases are arranged in a sequence of increasing or decreasing intensity or importance.
Example:
The poem builds tension through gradación, intensifying emotions as the narrative unfolds.
Las relaciones interpersonales
A major AP Spanish Literature theme focusing on the dynamics and complexities of relationships between individuals, often shaped by historical or social contexts.
Example:
The poem delves into las relaciones interpersonales by showing how ancestral experiences shape the present-day identities and connections of the grandfathers.
Las sociedades en contacto
A major AP Spanish Literature theme exploring the interactions, clashes, and blending of different cultures and societies.
Example:
"Dos Abuelos" exemplifies las sociedades en contacto by portraying the complex fusion of African and European cultures in Cuba.
Negrismo
An artistic and literary movement in the Caribbean that celebrated African heritage and addressed racial inequality.
Example:
The Negrismo movement sought to reclaim and valorize the cultural contributions of people of African descent in Latin America.
Nicolás Guillén
A prominent Afro-Cuban poet, journalist, and activist known for blending African and European influences in his work.
Example:
Nicolás Guillén's poetry, like 'Sensemayá,' often uses Afro-Cuban rhythms and language to celebrate his heritage.
Transatlantic slave trade
The forced transportation of millions of enslaved Africans across the Atlantic Ocean to the Americas, profoundly impacting the history and demographics of the Caribbean.
Example:
The poem "Dos Abuelos" directly addresses the brutal legacy of the transatlantic slave trade in shaping Cuban identity.
Verso libre
A poetic form that does not adhere to a fixed rhyme scheme or meter, allowing for greater flexibility and natural speech rhythms.
Example:
The use of verso libre in "Dos Abuelos" allows Guillén to create a flowing, spontaneous feel, mirroring the complex emotions expressed.