Pedro Calderon de la Barca

Date of Birth: January 17, 1600

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Date of Death: May 25, 1681

Biography

Pedro Calderón de la Barca was a renowned Spanish dramatist and poet of the Spanish Golden Age. Born on January 17, 1600, in Madrid, Spain, Calderón’s works are characterized by their philosophical depth and exploration of human nature. He was educated at the Jesuit College in Madrid and later at the University of Salamanca. Calderón initially studied law but soon found his true calling in literature and theatre. He wrote his first play at the age of 23, and by 1635, he had established himself as one of Spain’s foremost playwrights with the publication of his masterpiece, “Life is a Dream” (“La vida es sueño”). His career flourished under the patronage of King Philip IV, and he was appointed a court dramatist. Calderón’s works often delved into themes of honor, faith, and the human condition, making significant contributions to Spanish Baroque theatre. Despite his success in the theatre, Calderón was deeply religious and became a priest in 1651, which significantly influenced his later works. He continued to write plays for the court and the public theatres until his death on May 25, 1681. Calderón’s legacy endures through his profound influence on Spanish literature and theatre.

5 Interesting Facts about Pedro Calderon de la Barca

1. Calderón wrote over 120 plays and 80 autos sacramentales (one-act plays with religious themes) throughout his career.

2. He was knighted by King Philip IV and held the title of a Knight of the Order of Santiago.

3. Calderón’s philosophical masterpiece, “Life is a Dream,” explores existential themes and the nature of reality versus illusion.

4. He served as a soldier in the Spanish army during the Catalan Revolt (1640–1652).

5. Calderón’s works were highly influential in the development of Baroque theatre and are still performed today.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Pedro Calderon de la Barca

1. “What is life? A frenzy. What is life? An illusion, a shadow, a story. And the greatest good is but little, and all life is a dream, and dreams are only dreams.”

2. “For even in dreams, a good deed is not lost.”

3. “Honor is the moral conscience of human beings.”

4. “The greatest crime a man can commit is to be a coward.”

5. “To be suspicious is not a fault. To be suspicious all the time without coming to a conclusion is the defect.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Pedro Calderón de la Barca’s net worth is not well-documented, but his position as a prominent court dramatist and knight suggests he was well-compensated and held a respectable social status.