Art and Literature in the Spanish Golden Age

During the Spanish Golden Age (16th-17th centuries), art and literature flourished, reflecting Spain's cultural and political power. Artists like Velázquez and El Greco created realistic portraits and dramatic religious scenes, emphasizing emotion and detail. Writers such as Cervantes and Lope de Vega produced influential works—most notably Cervantes’ *Don Quixote*—that explored human nature and challenged traditional ideals. This period marked a golden era of creativity, blending classical influences with innovative styles, and significantly shaping Western culture through its profound artistic and literary achievements.