Spain and Spanish Culture in N. S. Gumiliov´s works

Abstract

This article is dedicated to the analysis of Spanish motifs in the works of the Russian Silver Age poet Nikolai Stepanovich Gumiliov (1886-1921). Under the Spanish motifs we understand the mentions of Spanish proper names or the cultural realities of Spain. While there are numerous studies on oriental, African, or Italian influences on the poet's works, nothing has been published yet about the Spanish subject. The article presents a brief biographical review of Gumiliov's life, showing the origin of foreign influences in his artistic creation. In total, the Spanish theme is treated in 26 poems and 4 plays. It appears in the first collection of poems by the poet that bears the title of The Way of Conquistadors; Spanish motifs remain present in Gumiliov's work until the last year of his life. The poet often used the image of the Spanish conquistador. Gumiliov in several poems dealt with the theme of the discovery of America and the Conquista. Another frequent image in his work is the figure of Don Juan. The Trickster of Seville is present not only in Gumiliov's poetry, but also in the drama Don Juan in Egypt. The article shows that Spain was an important source of inspiration for Gumiliov.