Samuel Richardson's presence and absence in Spain

Abstract

This paper is an attempt to illustrate Richardsonian influence in eighteenth century Spain, as well as his very surprising absence among several men of letters. Their silence, not to be interpreted as ignorance, is difficult to explain, given the literary leadership exercised by some of these in Spain. An overall view is given of the Spanish translations which people knew and the adaptations and imitations based on this English writer's novels and translated into Spanish. Still unknown translators of Richardson's works into Spanish are brought to light, as well as the possible Richardsonian influences on eighteenth century Spanish literature.