How did Modernisme differ from Noucentisme in Catalan literature?

In Catalan literature, Modernisme and Noucentisme represent two distinct, successive movements with differing artistic and cultural priorities.

Modernisme

Following the Renaixença, Modernisme was characterized by its internationalist outlook and a preoccupation with naturalistic depictions of society, particularly within the rural world. This movement influenced various forms of fiction and drama, often exploring themes of social defiance and spiritual regeneration.1

Noucentisme

Noucentisme emerged as both a continuation of and a reaction to Modernisme. Its primary differences include:

• Focus: While Modernisme was rural in its orientation, Noucentisme was distinctly urban.1
• Cultural Identity: Whereas Modernisme was internationalist, Noucentisme sought to establish a uniquely Catalan style.1
• Institutional Ties: Noucentisme was more closely linked to political and institutional action, supported by organizations like the Institut d’Estudis Catalans, which focused on the regulation of the Catalan language.1

The term Noucentisme, popularized by Eugeni d’Ors i Rovira, reflects this shift toward a structured, deliberate cultural identity during the early 20th century.1