Spanish Traditions Via Books: Know more About the Culture!

Primarily based on several historical influences about the pre-Roman Celtic and Iberian culture, the Spanish traditions and culture have a lot to offer in terms of knowledge and learning. For those planning a visit to the country, getting an insight into the history and culture of the destination makes the experience even more attractive. One way to make the most of your future trip is to read books based on Spanish culture and festivities. As an American writer — Henry David Thoreau, said, “Read the best books first, or you may not have a chance to read them at all”, here are few books that you can read:

1. Miguel de Cervantes — Don Quixote
Written in two parts by Spanish writer, Miguel de Cervantes, Don Quixote is a classic in Western literature. Considered as a parody of chivalric romances, the book explains what happens to an aging knight. It includes a series of misadventures as he travels across La Mancha. The book explains a lot about the life in Spain by its interesting plot.

2. Eduardo Mendoza — The City of Marvels
This historical fiction novel explores the city of Barcelona in the 20th century while beautifully capturing how the city transformed from being a medieval warren to a modern city. It explains the Spanish traditions and cultural evolution of the region via the main character — Onofre Bouvila — who represents the collective ideology of the low class characters.

3. Merce Rodoreda — Diamond Square
This novel explains the struggles of a young working class woman — La Colometa — at the time of the civil war. Without specifically mentioning the historical events, this first person narration explains Spanish traditions and culture via the heroic war accounts.

4. Jan Morris — Spain
This book uses highly descriptive language to skilfully attract the reader via the geography, religion, culture and politics of Spain. The author has shown the country as a grim place to exist in the strong grip of State and Church. Besides speaking of the Spanish traditions, the author tells about the land rich in coal and minerals.

Apart from these books, there are many others that can help you understand the Spanish festivities, culture and traditions. You can also have a look at — The Train in Spain by Christopher Howse, The Spanish Holocaust by Paul Preston, Driving Over Lemons by Chris Stewart to know more about the country. If you are planning your next trip to Spain, reading these books will help you make the most of your trip.