Who was the poet Rosalía de Castro?

Rosalía de Castro (1837–1885) was a seminal Spanish poet and novelist who wrote in both Galician and Spanish. She is widely considered the most important figure of the Rexurdimento, the 19th-century cultural movement that revitalized the Galician language and identity.

Here are a few key points about her:

• Literary Significance: She is credited with elevating the Galician language to a literary status at a time when it was largely considered a dialect of the peasantry. Her 1863 collection, Cantares gallegos (Galician Songs), is regarded as the first major work of modern Galician literature.
• Themes: Her work is often characterized by themes of deep melancholy (saudade), social injustice, the struggles of the Galician people, and the harsh realities of rural life. Her later poetry, particularly the collection En las orillas del Sar (On the Banks of the Sar), is noted for its existential depth and influence on modern Spanish poetry.
• Life: She was born in Santiago de Compostela, the daughter of a priest and a noblewoman, which was a source of social stigma during her time. She married the writer and historian Manuel Murguía, who encouraged her literary career.
• Legacy: Today, she is a national icon in Galicia. Her birthday, February 24, is celebrated annually as Rosalia de Castro Day in Galicia, honoring her contribution to the region's culture and language.

Would you like to know more about a specific work of hers or her influence on literature?