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Analysis of Hermeticism's Historical Context in Italian Poetry

publication · 2026-03-20

An article examines the Hermeticism movement in Italian poetry through the lens of Salvatore Quasimodo's work. The piece discusses how this literary style emerged as an aesthetic response to the historical constraints of the Fascist era, representing a withdrawal of the poetic self. Following Liberation, poetry shifted toward more socially engaged forms. The analysis focuses on how Quasimodo's famous poem 'Alle fronde dei salici' provides a key interpretation of this entire cultural period.

Key facts

  • The article analyzes Hermeticism in Italian poetry
  • Salvatore Quasimodo is discussed as a key figure
  • Hermeticism developed during the Fascist period
  • The movement represented poetic withdrawal from social engagement
  • Post-Liberation poetry moved toward social themes

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