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Classic Literature· Venezuela

Doña Bárbara

by Rómulo Gallegos
Aggregate Editorial Score30/100
Published 1929Spanish
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About This Book

Published in 1929, Doña Bárbara established Rómulo Gallegos as one of the defining voices in classic literature. Doña Bárbara is a seminal work in Venezuelan literature, written by Rómulo Gallegos. The novel explores the clash between civilization and barbarism in the Venezuelan plains, personified by the ruthless and enigmatic Doña Bárbara. Through its vivid characters and rich depiction of the landscape, the book delves into themes of power, nature, and cultural transformation. It is considered a classic of Latin American literature and has been influential in shaping the region's narrative tradition. Themes of civilization vs. barbarism, power, nature run through the work.

Book Details

AuthorRómulo Gallegos
Published1929
Country of Origin🇻🇪 Venezuela
LanguageSpanish
Category🏛️ Classic Literature
ISBN978-0195143301
Editorial Score30/100
About the Category

🏛️ Classic Literature

Enduring works that have shaped world literature across centuries.

Explore all Classic Literature books →
Country of Origin

🇻🇪 Venezuela

This book is part of Venezuela's rich literary tradition.

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Editorial Assessment

Rómulo Gallegos published Doña Bárbara in 1929, and it has since become one of the more widely recognised works of classic literature from Venezuela. The book's treatment of civilization vs. barbarism, power, nature, cultural transformation accounts for much of its enduring reputation. Critics and institutions have consistently placed Doña Bárbara among the notable works of its period. Our aggregate score of 30/100 is compiled from 1 editorial sources that range from Nobel and Booker committees to leading literary journals. What distinguishes Doña Bárbara is how it handles its central concerns — civilization vs. barbarism, power, nature, cultural transformation — without reducing them to neat conclusions. The book invites close reading and holds up well to it. Rómulo Gallegos's role in the literature of Venezuela is well established. Doña Bárbara can be read as both a standalone achievement and as part of a broader national literary conversation about identity, history, and the possibilities of narrative form.
About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from 1 independent sources including major literary prizes, critical surveys, and leading publications. Our editorial team reviews and contextualises this data. Rankings reflect critical consensus, not personal opinion or popularity metrics. Learn about our methodology.

Awards & Recognition

Guardian 100 Best Novels
list · global
20030
✍️
About the Author
Rómulo Gallegos
Venezuela
View Author →

Rómulo Gallegos is a Venezuela author whose work in classic literature has earned recognition from readers and critics alike.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Doña Bárbara about?

Doña Bárbara is a seminal work in Venezuelan literature, written by Rómulo Gallegos. The novel explores the clash between civilization and barbarism in the Venezuelan plains, personified by the ruthless and enigmatic Doña Bárbara. Through its vivid characters and rich depiction of the landscape, the book delves into themes of power, nature, and cultural transformation. It is considered a classic of Latin American literature and has been influential in shaping the region's narrative tradition.

Who wrote Doña Bárbara?

Doña Bárbara was written by Rómulo Gallegos, from Venezuela. First published in 1929.

What awards has Doña Bárbara won?

Doña Bárbara has received the following recognition: notable critical recognition.

Is Doña Bárbara worth reading?

Doña Bárbara is a well-regarded book with an aggregate editorial score of 30/100 on 50 Best Books. It is particularly recommended for readers interested in civilization vs. barbarism, power, nature.

Where can I buy Doña Bárbara?

You can buy Doña Bárbara on Amazon. Click the Buy on Amazon button above to find the best edition.

What category is Doña Bárbara?

Doña Bárbara is classified as Classic Literature. Enduring works that have shaped world literature across centuries.

What country is Doña Bárbara from?

Doña Bárbara originates from Venezuela's literary tradition. Explore more books from Venezuela on our country page.

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