Wartime Sociability

Literary Societies in Bolivia During the War of the Pacific (La Paz, 1881-1884)

Abstract

Abstract

The aim of this article is to analyze the emergence and prevalence of literary societies in La Paz (Bolivia) between 1881 and 1884. Although it was a period troubled by the War of the Pacific, these social practices didn’t decrease. On the contrary, they got stronger during this lapse of time and began an institutionalization process. 

This work is based on a series of primary sources, such as local newspapers, magazines, brochures and other documents. Its purpose is to contribute to the better knowledge of the 19th century Bolivian literary culture –especially, from La Paz–. The proposal wants to show how literature was a rather common exercise between elites and how it underwent through a generational change.        

Keywords

Literature-cultural history-19th century-sociability-Bolivia-War of the Pacific