The Critick

The Critick (El criticón) is a philosophical novel by Baltasar Gracián y Morales, a leading Spanish exponent of conceptismo. Published in three parts between 1651 and 1657, it is considered one of the most important books ever written by philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer.12

Gracián, a Jesuit, wrote The Critick pseudonymously in defiance of his superiors. The novel examines society from the perspective of a savage, presenting a pessimistic philosophy that emphasizes willpower and struggle. Conceptismo, a literary style characterized by terse and witty ideas, was a hallmark of Gracián's work. This style contrasts with culteranismo, which focused on ornate language and classical allusions.12