A heterodox disciple of Menéndez Pelayo: José Luis Cano

Abstract

José Luis Cano pertained to the philology-oriented and historical school of thought of Menéndez Pelayo that laid the foundation for modern Spanish literary criticism and was a follower of Dámaso Alonso. Upon reading the works of Cansinos Assens, Azorín and Adrenio, he formed his own standard for literary criticism. From the great scholar from Santander, Cano, he incorporated the importance of evaluating the esthetic, the historical medium and precursors, as well as what a given work adds to literary history. Although he took kindly to some peer review, he argued the majority of his views with the literary elite of his day due to his own affinity for liberal ideology. The Andalusian critic transmitted the human component of the wise traditionalist as well as the rectification of errors in order to be generous and just. He is an example to be respected regarding the origins of literary study as well as a relevant personal addition.