Gil Vicente

Gil Vicente

Playwright

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Quick Facts

Founder of Portuguese drama
Influential in the development of Portuguese literature

Father of Portuguese drama: Gil Vicente, wordsmith whose plays still sing.

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Life Journey

1465Birth of Gil Vicente

Gil Vicente was born in Guimarães, a city in northern Portugal, to a family of the minor nobility.

1480Begins Education

Gil Vicente begins his formal education, likely focusing on classical literature and the arts, which would later influence his work.

1490Marriage to Branca Bezerra

Gil Vicente marries Branca Bezerra, a woman from a similar social background, solidifying his place in the local community.

1495First Play: 'Monólogo do Vaqueiro'

Vicente writes 'Monólogo do Vaqueiro' (Monologue of the Herdsman), marking the beginning of his theatrical career and the foundation of Portuguese drama.

1502Appointed Court Chronicler

Gil Vicente is appointed as the chronicler of the Portuguese royal court, a position that provides him access to the highest echelons of society.

1504Writes 'Auto da Barca do Inferno'

Vicente composes 'Auto da Barca do Inferno' (The Auto of the Ship of Hell), a significant work that explores moral and religious themes.

1509Becomes Court Poet

Gil Vicente is officially recognized as the court poet, further cementing his status and influence within the Portuguese nobility.

1512Publishes 'Farsa de Inês Pereira'

Vicente publishes 'Farsa de Inês Pereira' (The Farce of Inês Pereira), a satirical play that critiques social norms and class distinctions.

1516King Manuel I Dies

King Manuel I, a patron of the arts, dies, marking a significant change in the political landscape and potentially affecting Vicente's career.

1518Writes 'Auto da Foca'

Vicente writes 'Auto da Foca' (The Auto of the Seal), a play that combines elements of comedy and satire with moral and religious themes.

1521Begins Writing 'Trilogia das Barcas'

Vicente starts work on 'Trilogia das Barcas' (Trilogy of the Ships), a series of plays that delve into the human condition and societal issues.

1525Retires from Court

After years of service, Gil Vicente retires from his position at the royal court, though he continues to write and influence Portuguese literature.

1528Last Known Play: 'Auto da Alma'

Vicente writes 'Auto da Alma' (The Auto of the Soul), his last known play, which explores spiritual and existential themes.

1530Returns to Guimarães

Gil Vicente returns to his birthplace, Guimarães, where he spends his final years reflecting on his life and legacy.

1536Death of Gil Vicente

Gil Vicente dies in Guimarães, leaving behind a rich legacy as the founder of Portuguese drama and a significant figure in Portuguese literature.

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