SAMANIEGO
by Félix María Samaniego · from Fábulas
Adapted Version
Once, in Spain, lived a special man. His name was Félix. Félix was a storyteller. He wrote many animal stories. These stories teach good lessons. Félix wanted to help his country. He wanted to make things better. He was a good man.
Félix joined a special group. They were good friends. They wanted to help people. Félix wrote stories for children. He wrote them for school. His stories taught important things. They helped children learn. They made school fun.
Another man wrote stories too. His name was Tomás. Tomás wrote fables. But Félix's stories were simple. They were easy to read. They felt very real. Children loved them more. They were very natural.
Children still read Félix's stories. His fables are very important. They are good for school. They help children learn lessons. They teach good things. Teachers like these stories. Students like them too. They are special books.
Mr. Valera was a wise writer. Mr. Valera loved Félix's stories. He said they were very special. They were like other famous stories. He thought they were very special, like stories from another famous writer.
Many, many years later, people wanted to remember Félix. They had a big party for him. It was in a city called San Sebastián.
At the party, there was a special statue of Félix. Many important people talked about him. They said nice things about his stories.
A very special guest spoke. He said Félix's stories teach good lessons. They teach in a fun way. It is better than boring books.
Everyone in Spain remembered Félix. Newspapers wrote about him. His stories are still loved. Félix is a very famous storyteller.
Félix's stories are still loved today. They teach us good things. Félix is a very famous storyteller. We remember him always.
Original Story
SAMANIEGO
El ilustre fabulista, llamado con justicia por Príncipe y por otros el La Fontaine español, nació en 1745 y murió en la villa de Laguardia en 1801, después de emplear su vida en el fomento de los intereses de su país natal. Fué uno de los primeros que se alistaron en aquellas famosas Sociedades de Amigos del País, iniciadas y fomentadas en tiempo de Carlos III y á las que tanto debe nuestra patria. Miembro de la Sociedad Vascongada, establecida en 1645, consagró todos sus esfuerzos y energía á promover y mejorar la educación popular y á este fin compuso[1] su notable colección de Fábulas destinadas, como reza el título, Á los caballeros alumnos del Real Seminario Patriótico vascongado, fundado por la indicada sociedad. Según Ticknor en su Historia de la literatura española, «la primera parte (de las Fábulas) publicada en 1781 y por lo tanto un año antes que la colección de Iriarte, habla de éste como de su modelo[2], sin dejar duda, por lo mismo, de que había visto sus fábulas. Publicóse la segunda en 1784, cuando ya la de su rival había sido aplaudida por el público, de donde se originó la ruptura de sus buenas relaciones, mediando entre ambos cuestiones y folletos que les hacen poco honor... Las fábulas de Samaniego no están seguramente tan bien escritas como las de Iriarte, ni aplicadas con tanta exactitud y originalidad; pero son más sencillas, más naturales y más á propósito para el común de los lectores.»
El eminente crítico Sr. Menéndez y Pelayo, en su obra Los Heterodoxos, habla largamente acerca de otros trabajos de Samaniego y de sus tendencias filosóficas.
Sin embargo, cualquiera que sea el juicio que pueda formarse sobre sus demás escritos, no puede negarse que sus fábulas tuvieron y siguen teniendo la mayor aceptación entre maestros y discípulos, y que constituyen una obra indispensable en las escuelas.
Mi ilustre amigo y maestro, el eximio literato Don Juan Valera, á quien daba cuenta no ha mucho de mi propósito de publicar la presente edición, me decía en fecha reciente (31 de diciembre de 1901): «Mucho celebro que publique Ud. ahí una bonita edición de las fábulas de Samaniego, anotada por Ud. Estas fábulas, en mi sentir, son preciosas y bien pueden entrar en competencia con las de La Fontaine, que se ponen tan por las nubes.»
En 11 de agosto del año pasado hizo justamente un siglo que falleció el insigne fabulista[3], y el 11 de septiembre del mismo año organizó la ilustre Sociedad Económica Vascongada de Amigos del País, en honor suyo, una solemne fiesta en el Palacio de Bellas Artes de San Sebastián, con motivo del centenario de su muerte[4]. De este modo procuraba corresponder al cariño de su hijo predilecto, que había hecho inmortal su nombre, inscribiéndole al frente de la 1ª edición de sus Fábulas.
La junta de Gobierno de dicha Sociedad, que tiene por presidente á D. Leonardo Moyúa y por secretario general á D. Tomás Berminghan, no perdonó medio para dar el mayor brillo y realce á tan patriótica ceremonia, en la que figuraba, presidiendo la escena, el notable busto de Samaniego debido al cincel del escultor bilbaino Sr. Larrea[5]. En un inspirado discurso, cuyos elocuentes párrafos arrancaron frecuentes aplausos, trazó un animado cuadro de la vida y trabajos de nuestro poeta, el elegante escritor, profesor y erudito polígrafo D. Ricardo Becerro de Bengoa[6].
Puso término á la patriótica ceremonia con sentida, al par que elocuente peroración, el Excmo. Sr. Duque de Almodóvar del Río, Ministro de Estado, que hizo notar con mucha oportunidad que «en las Fábulas morales del insigne hijo de Laguardia, no sólo gustamos las primicias del arte literario, sino que aprendimos los preceptos morales, que más tarde en nuestra vida habían de guiarnos, con más gusto, con mayor placer que cuando esos mismos preceptos eran expuestos con la severidad de la ciencia en los tratados áridos de la Filosofía Moral.»
⁂
Para terminar, agregaremos las siguientes notas que consignan los biógrafos de Samaniego: «era de estatura pequeña, pelo negro, cara un poco larga y expresiva; y en cuanto á lo moral, algo escéptico, socarrón y alegre.»
Con motivo de la celebración de su centenario, casi todos los periódicos españoles han honrado la memoria de Samaniego, lo cual demuestra, bien á las claras, que, lejos de irse amortiguando su gloria y fama, no han hecho sino crecer y consolidarse.
Miguel de Toro Gómez.
París, 7 de enero de 1902.
Story DNA
Plot Summary
This text is a biographical and critical introduction to Félix María Samaniego, a renowned Spanish fabulist (1745-1801). It details his dedication to national development and popular education through his fables, comparing them to those of his rival Iriarte and even La Fontaine. The author includes endorsements from esteemed literary figures like Don Juan Valera and describes a grand centenary celebration held in 1901, where speakers lauded Samaniego's enduring moral and literary impact. The piece concludes by affirming Samaniego's lasting fame and consolidated glory in Spanish literature.
Themes
Emotional Arc
appreciation to celebration
Writing Style
Narrative Elements
Cultural Context
The text provides a historical overview of Samaniego's life and work, placing him within the context of the Spanish Enlightenment and the literary scene of his time, particularly his rivalry with Iriarte. It also documents a specific historical event: the centenary celebration of his death in 1901.
Plot Beats (11)
- The text introduces Félix María Samaniego, a Spanish fabulist (1745-1801), known as the 'Spanish La Fontaine' and dedicated to his country's development.
- Samaniego was a key member of the 'Sociedades de Amigos del País' and focused on improving popular education, composing his fables for students.
- Ticknor's 'Historia de la literatura española' is cited, comparing Samaniego's fables to Iriarte's, noting Samaniego's simplicity and naturalness.
- Menéndez y Pelayo's work is mentioned, discussing Samaniego's other writings and philosophical tendencies.
- The author asserts the continued acceptance and indispensability of Samaniego's fables in schools.
- Don Juan Valera's recent letter (1901) is quoted, praising Samaniego's fables as precious and comparable to La Fontaine's.
- A centenary celebration for Samaniego was held on September 11, 1901, by the 'Sociedad Económica Vascongada de Amigos del País' in San Sebastián.
- The event featured a bust of Samaniego by Sr. Larrea and speeches by D. Ricardo Becerro de Bengoa and the Duke of Almodóvar del Río.
- The Duke of Almodóvar del Río's speech highlighted how Samaniego's moral fables provided enjoyable moral precepts, superior to dry philosophical treatises.
- Biographical notes describe Samaniego as small, dark-haired, expressive, somewhat skeptical, cunning, and cheerful.
- The author concludes by noting that Samaniego's memory was honored by almost all Spanish newspapers during his centenary, indicating his growing and consolidated fame.
Characters
Félix María Samaniego ★ protagonist
A man of short stature with a slightly long, expressive face. His build would have been typical for an educated gentleman of the late 18th century Spain, likely slender rather than robust.
Attire: As an educated gentleman and member of various societies, he would have worn formal 18th-century Spanish attire: a tailored frock coat, waistcoat, breeches, silk stockings, and buckled shoes. Colors would have been subdued but rich, such as deep blues, greens, or browns, possibly with fine embroidery on the waistcoat or cuffs.
Wants: To improve popular education in his native country, Spain, and to contribute to the intellectual and moral development of its citizens through his fables.
Flaw: His rivalry with Iriarte, which led to public disputes and pamphlets, suggesting a degree of pride or competitiveness that could overshadow his better judgment.
The story primarily focuses on his legacy rather than a personal arc, highlighting how his work grew in fame and acceptance even after his death, solidifying his place as an indispensable author in Spanish schools.
Skeptical, cunning (socarrón), and cheerful. He was dedicated to public service, particularly in education, and was a prolific writer.
Image Prompt & Upload
A short, slender adult man of Spanish ethnicity, facing forward, full body visible from head to toe. He has a slightly long, expressive face with dark eyes and black hair tied back with a ribbon, possibly powdered. He wears a tailored dark blue frock coat with silver buttons, a cream silk waistcoat with subtle embroidery, white breeches, white silk stockings, and black buckled shoes. He holds a quill pen in his right hand. His expression is thoughtful and slightly amused. Plain white background, full body visible head to toe, single figure, no watermark, no text, no signature.
Tomás de Iriarte ○ minor
Not explicitly described, but as a contemporary and rival of Samaniego, he would have been a Spanish gentleman of the late 18th century, likely of average height and build.
Attire: As a prominent writer and rival, he would have worn formal 18th-century Spanish attire: a tailored frock coat, waistcoat, breeches, silk stockings, and buckled shoes, similar to Samaniego but perhaps with his own distinct style.
Wants: To achieve literary success and recognition for his fables.
Flaw: His rivalry with Samaniego, which led to public disputes.
Not applicable, as he is mentioned only in relation to Samaniego's work and rivalry.
Competitive, acclaimed, and a model for Samaniego's early work, suggesting a strong literary presence and perhaps a degree of pride.
Image Prompt & Upload
A distinguished adult man of Spanish ethnicity, facing forward, full body visible from head to toe. He has a refined face and dark hair tied back with a black ribbon. He wears a dark green velvet frock coat, a cream-colored embroidered waistcoat, white breeches, white silk stockings, and black leather shoes with silver buckles. He holds a closed book in his left hand. His expression is serious and composed. Plain white background, full body visible head to toe, single figure, no watermark, no text, no signature.
Don Juan Valera ◆ supporting
Not explicitly described, but as an 'eximio literato' in 1901, he would have been an elderly Spanish gentleman, likely with a dignified and scholarly appearance.
Attire: As an eminent literato in 1901, he would have worn formal late 19th/early 20th-century Spanish attire: a dark tailored suit (perhaps a frock coat or morning coat), a starched white shirt, and a tie or cravat. His clothing would be of fine quality, reflecting his status.
Wants: To offer his esteemed opinion and support for the publication of Samaniego's fables.
Flaw: Not applicable, as his role is to provide a positive endorsement.
Not applicable, as he appears only to give an opinion.
Appreciative, discerning, and supportive of Samaniego's work, considering it comparable to La Fontaine's.
Image Prompt & Upload
An elderly, distinguished adult man of Spanish ethnicity, facing forward, full body visible from head to toe. He has a thoughtful face with a neatly trimmed white beard and mustache, and thinning white hair. He wears a dark grey tailored frock coat, a white starched shirt, and a dark silk cravat. He holds a pair of spectacles in his right hand. His expression is wise and appreciative. Plain white background, full body visible head to toe, single figure, no watermark, no text, no signature.
Miguel de Toro Gómez ◆ supporting
Not explicitly described, but as the author of the preface in 1902, he would have been a Spanish intellectual of the early 20th century, likely of average build and height.
Attire: As an author and editor in 1902, he would have worn formal early 20th-century Spanish attire: a dark tailored suit, a white shirt, and a tie. His clothing would be respectable and professional.
Wants: To publish a new, annotated edition of Samaniego's fables and to honor his memory.
Flaw: Not applicable, as he is the narrator/editor.
Not applicable, as he is the narrator/editor.
Respectful, diligent, and dedicated to preserving and promoting Samaniego's legacy.
Image Prompt & Upload
A scholarly adult man of Spanish ethnicity, facing forward, full body visible from head to toe. He has a serious, intelligent face with a neatly trimmed dark mustache and short, dark hair. He wears a dark charcoal grey tailored suit, a crisp white shirt, and a dark patterned tie. He holds a newly bound book in his hands, presenting it. His expression is earnest and professional. Plain white background, full body visible head to toe, single figure, no watermark, no text, no signature.
Locations
Villa de Laguardia
A historic villa in the Basque Country, likely featuring traditional stone architecture, narrow streets, and vineyards typical of the Rioja Alavesa region. The atmosphere would be one of quiet historical significance.
Mood: Historical, serene, reflective
Samaniego was born and died here, making it his lifelong home and a place of origin for his work.
Image Prompt & Upload
A view of the historic Villa de Laguardia in the Basque Country, with its ancient stone buildings and a prominent church tower rising above red-tiled roofs. Rolling hills covered in neat rows of grapevines stretch into the distance under a clear, bright afternoon sky. The light casts soft shadows, highlighting the texture of the weathered stone walls. no border, no frame, no watermark, no text, no signature, edge-to-edge illustration.
Real Seminario Patriótico Vascongado
An educational institution in the Basque Country, likely a substantial building with classical Spanish architectural elements, possibly a courtyard, lecture halls, and a library. The atmosphere would be one of learning and intellectual pursuit.
Mood: Academic, formal, studious
Samaniego's Fábulas were specifically composed for the students of this seminary, indicating its central role in his educational mission.
Image Prompt & Upload
An interior view of a grand lecture hall within the Real Seminario Patriótico Vascongado, featuring high ceilings with intricate plasterwork and large arched windows letting in soft daylight. Rows of dark wooden benches face a raised podium, and the walls are adorned with classical paintings. The air feels quiet and reverent, filled with the scent of old books and polished wood. no border, no frame, no watermark, no text, no signature, edge-to-edge illustration.
Palacio de Bellas Artes de San Sebastián
A grand, ornate palace in San Sebastián, likely built in a Belle Époque or Beaux-Arts style, typical of late 19th/early 20th-century Spanish public buildings. It would feature high ceilings, chandeliers, polished floors, and decorative elements suitable for solemn ceremonies and artistic events.
Mood: Formal, celebratory, grand, respectful
This was the venue for the solemn centenary celebration of Samaniego's death, where speeches were given and his bust was displayed.
Image Prompt & Upload
The grand main hall of the Palacio de Bellas Artes in San Sebastián, adorned with elaborate Belle Époque architectural details, including gilded moldings, large crystal chandeliers hanging from a high, frescoed ceiling, and tall arched windows overlooking a city park. A polished parquet floor reflects the soft, diffused light of an early autumn afternoon. On a raised platform, a distinguished bronze bust of Samaniego is prominently displayed, surrounded by floral arrangements. no border, no frame, no watermark, no text, no signature, edge-to-edge illustration.
