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Gustavo Adolfo Bécquer
(One of the Most Important Figures in Spanish Literature and Most Read Writer After 'Miguel de Cervantes')
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Birthdate: February 17, 1836
Sun Sign: Aquarius
Birthplace: Seville, Spain
Died: December 22, 1870
Gustavo Adolfo Bécquer was a prominent Spanish Romantic poet, writer, playwright, and literary columnist. He was known for his mastery of short stories and drawing skills. Bécquer is considered one of the most significant figures in Spanish literature, following Miguel de Cervantes. He adopted the alias of Bécquer from his brother Valeriano. Associated with romanticism and post-romanticism movements, Bécquer's works, such as the Rhymes and the Legends, are essential in Spanish literature studies and common reading in Spanish-speaking high schools. He is credited with modernizing traditional poetry and themes, establishing himself as the founder of modern Spanish lyricism. His influence extends to 20th-century Spanish-language poets like Luis Cernuda, Octavio Paz, and Antonio Machado, among others.