Gaspar de Villarroel - Ecuadorian Literature

Fray Gaspar de Villarroel (Quito, Kingdom of Quito, present-day Ecuador, 1587 – La Plata, Charcas, present-day Sucre, Bolivia, October 12, 1665) was an influential Augustinian priest, theologian, and archbishop in colonial Spanish America. Educated at the Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos in Lima, he rose to prominence as a preacher in Spain, eventually being appointed Bishop of Santiago de Chile in 1637, where he led relief efforts during the 1647 earthquake. He later served as Bishop of Arequipa and Archbishop of La Plata (Charcas). Villarroel is also remembered for his significant theological writings, particularly Gobierno Eclesiástico Pacífico (1656), which addressed the relationship between church and state in the Spanish colonies.

Early Life and Education

Fray Gaspar de Villarroel was born in 1587 in Quito, part of the Spanish Empire’s Real Audiencia of Quito (modern-day Ecuador). He came from a family of Spanish heritage; his father, also named Gaspar de Villarroel, was a poet, and his mother was Ana Ordóñez de Barquisimeto. Villarroel entered the Augustinian Order in 1607 and pursued an ecclesiastical career early in life. He studied at the prestigious Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos in Lima, where he obtained a doctorate in theology and canon law. His academic excellence led him to become a professor at the same university, where he taught theology and canon law.

Debate Over Birthplace

According to Gonzalo Zaldumbide’s 1960 study on Fray Gaspar de Villarroel, there has been significant debate regarding the exact location of his birth. While some sources suggest Riobamba, Lima, or even Spain, most scholars agree that he was born in Quito. Villarroel himself stated that he was born in “Quito, in a poor household,” though this claim has been met with some skepticism. Several prominent historians, including Nicolás Antonio and Antonio de Alcedo, support Quito as his birthplace. The confusion stems partly from the historical use of “Quito” to refer to the broader region of the Kingdom of Quito, which included areas like Riobamba. Despite conflicting reports, it is widely accepted that Villarroel was born around 1587 in Quito, where he spent his early years before moving to Lima for his education and religious training.

Career in the Church

Villarroel’s reputation as a scholar and preacher grew rapidly. After completing his studies, he embarked on a trip to Spain, where he gained prominence as a preacher, particularly at the Capilla Real in Madrid. His eloquence and ability to preach “truths without insolence” caught the attention of King Philip IV, who appointed him as Bishop of Santiago de Chile in 1637.

Bishop of Santiago de Chile

In Chile, Villarroel faced significant challenges, including the devastating 1647 earthquake that destroyed much of Santiago. His leadership during this crisis was pivotal, as he not only physically aided in the relief efforts but also inspired the population with sermons of hope and faith. His efforts included organizing processions, such as one with the revered image of the “Cristo de Mayo,” which became a symbol of the city’s resilience. Villarroel’s account of the earthquake remains a valuable historical source, estimating severe damage to the region, particularly to the Church.

Bishop of Arequipa

In 1651, Villarroel was appointed Bishop of Arequipa, where he oversaw the completion of the local cathedral and continued his pastoral work. He was praised for his humility and dedication to his duties. His governance was marked by effective administration and care for both the spiritual and material needs of his diocese.

Archbishop of La Plata (Charcas)

In 1659, Villarroel became Archbishop of La Plata (now Sucre, Bolivia), one of the most significant ecclesiastical roles in the Spanish colonies. During his tenure, he founded a monastery for Carmelite nuns and contributed to the construction of the local cathedral. Villarroel remained in this role until his death in 1665.

Literary Contributions

Gaspar de Villarroel is best known for his theological writings, which blend canonical law, civil law, and personal experience. His most notable work, Gobierno Eclesiástico Pacífico (1656), addresses the relationship between ecclesiastical and royal authority, attempting to harmonize the two in colonial governance. Other important works include Historias Sagradas y Eclesiásticas Morales and several collections of sermons. His writing reflects the scholasticism of the period and offers insights into the religious, legal, and social issues of colonial Latin America.

Legacy and Influence

Villarroel’s influence extended beyond his religious duties, as he is also recognized as a key figure in early Ecuadorian literature. His writings were considered precursors to the intellectual tradition that later flourished in Quito. Scholars like Gonzalo Zaldumbide have credited Villarroel with helping to lay the foundations of Ecuadorian literary history. He is also remembered for his piety, humility, and dedication to his diocese, leaving behind a legacy of spiritual and intellectual contributions to both church and society.

Villarroel passed away on October 12, 1665, in Charcas (Sucre), Bolivia. His remains were interred in the convent of the Carmelite nuns, which he had helped to establish.

Recognitions and Accolades

Villarroel’s career was marked by several recognitions, including his appointment as the royal preacher for King Philip IV and his successive roles as Bishop of Santiago, Arequipa, and Archbishop of La Plata. His literary works continued to be studied for their theological depth and historical value, particularly in the context of Spanish colonial governance and the relationship between church and state.

Timeline of Gaspar de Villarroel‘s life

1587 – Birth: Gaspar de Villarroel is born in Quito, in the Kingdom of Quito (present-day Ecuador), though some sources also claim Riobamba, Lima, and even Spain as his birthplace.
1608 – Joins the Augustinian Order: At the age of 21, Villarroel joins the Augustinian order. His early education likely begins in Quito and continues in Lima.
1631 – First Published Works: Villarroel publishes his first major works in Lisbon, including Primera Parte de los comentarios y dificultades y discursos literales sobre los Evangelios de la Cuaresma and Sermón de la Canonización del Glorioso S. Ignacio de Loyola.
1632 – Further Theological Works: He publishes Segunda Parte de los comentarios, dificultades y discursos literales y místicos sobre los Evangelios de la Cuaresma in Madrid.
1636 – Additional Works: Villarroel publishes Judices Commentariis literalibus cum moralibus aphorismis ilustrati in Madrid.
1656 – Publication of Gobierno Eclesiástico Pacífico: Villarroel publishes Gobierno Eclesiástico Pacífico y Unión de los Dos Cuchillos Pontificio y Regio in Madrid, exploring the relationship between ecclesiastical and royal power.
1659 – Appointed Bishop of Santiago de Chile: Villarroel is appointed Bishop of Santiago de Chile by King Philip IV of Spain, reflecting his growing influence as a theologian.
1660 – Promoted to Archbishop of Charcas: Villarroel is promoted to Archbishop of Charcas (modern-day Sucre, Bolivia), one of the highest ecclesiastical offices in colonial Latin America.
1660 – Publication of Historias Sagradas y Eclesiásticas Morales: He publishes Primera Parte de las Historias Sagradas y Eclesiásticas Morales and Segunda Parte in Madrid.
1661–1663 – Continued Scholarly Work: Villarroel publishes more theological commentaries, including Primera Parte de los comentarios, dificultades y discursos literales, morales y místicos sobre los Evangelios de los Domingos de Adviento y de todo el año (1661) and Segunda Parte de los comentarios (1662).
1665 – Death: Fray Gaspar de Villarroel dies in Charcas (Sucre, Bolivia) at the age of 73, leaving behind a lasting legacy as a theologian and influential religious leader in colonial Latin America.

Works

Primera Parte de los comentarios y dificultades y discursos literales sobre los Evangelios de la Cuaresma, Lisboa 1631.
Sermón de la Canonización del Glorioso S. Ignacio de Loyola, Lisboa 1631.
Segunda Parte de los comentarios, dificultades y discursos literales y místicos sobre los Evangelios de la Cuaresma, Madrid 1632.
Semana Santa. Tratados de los comentarios y dificultadas y discursos literales y místicos sobre los Evangelios de la Cuaresma, Sevilla 1634.
Sermón en la fiesta que celebro la Religión de Nuestro Patrono San Agustín en el Convento de San Felipe a los desagravios del Smo. S. del Altar por los desacatos que le hicieron en el saco de Tirlimón, Madrid 1635.
Judices Commentariis literalibus cum moralibus aphorismis ilustrati, Madrid 1636.
Gobierno Eclesiástico Pacifico y Unión de los Dos Cuchillos Pontificio y Regio, Madrid 1656.
Primera parte de las Historias Sagradas y Eclesiásticas Morales, con quince misterios de nuestra fe, de que se labran 15 coronas a la Virgen Santísima Señora Nuestra, Madrid 1660.
Segunda Parte de las Historias Sagradas y Eclesiásticas Morales, Madrid 1660.
Primera Parte de los comentarios, dificultades y discursos literales, morales y místicos, sobre los Evangelios de los Domingos de Adviento y de todo el año, Madrid 1661.
Segunda parte de los comentarios, dificultades y discursos literales y místicos sobre los Evangelios de la Cuaresma, Madrid 1662.
Primera y Segunda Parte y Semana Santa de los comentarios, dificultades y discursos literales y místicos sobre los Evangelios de la Cuaresma y Semana Santa, Madrid 1663.
Relación del terremoto que asoló la ciudad de Santiago de Chile en las ruinas del Perú. La Sociedad, 1863.
Sermón de Nuestro Patrono San Agustín (R. Briceño, Repertorio).
Cuestiones Quodlibéticas escolásticas y positivas (citado en J. T. Medina, Ensayo de Bibliografía).
Historias Sagradas y Eclesiásticas Morales, Madrid 1660.
Preces Diurnae et nocturnae (citado en R. Briceño, Repertorio).
Catorce cartas al Rey y diez R.C. del Rey al Obispo (publicadas por E. Lizana M.).

References

Wikipedia, “Gaspar de Villarroel.” Retrieved on October 17, 2024. Click to view.
Catholic-Hierarchy, “Bishop Gaspar de Villarroel.” Retrieved on October 17, 2024. Click to view.
Rodolfo Pérez Pimentel, “Villarroel, Gaspar de.” Retrieved on October 17, 2024. Click to view.
Real Academia de la Historia (DBE), “Gaspar de Villarroel Ordóñez.” Retrieved on October 17, 2024. Click to view.
Encyclopedia.com, “Gaspar de Villarroel (1587?–1665).” Retrieved on October 17, 2024. Click to view.
Cervantes Virtual, “Fray Gaspar de Villarroel.” Retrieved on October 17, 2024. Click to view.
DHIAL, “Villarroel, Gaspar de.” Retrieved on October 17, 2024. Click to view.