Satirist writers - Ecuadorian Literature

Anacarsis Martínez (Ambato, Tungurahua, July 16, 1862 – March 27, 1930) was an Ecuadorian politician, satirist, writer, publisher, and editor. His first political writings were published in the newspaper “El Combate” alongside Juan Benigno Vela and Celiano Monge. Then, in 1887, he founded and became the editor of “La Avispa,” a political-satirical newspaper. His writings were mainly published in Trajano Mera’s “Revista Ecuatoriana” and in “Revista Guayaquil,” where he published his acclaimed article “Las ilusiones de un gamonal.” He also wrote the short novel “El desfalco.” In 1911, he served as Governor of Tungurahua. He was the older brother of the writers Augusto N. Martinez and Luis A. Martinez.

Francisco Javier Eugenio de Santa Cruz y Espejo (Royal Audiencia of Quito, February 21, 1747 – December 28, 1795) better known as Eugenio Espejo, was a prominent figure in colonial Ecuador, who made significant contributions to journalism, library science, and hygiene. He was a fearless journalist who advocated for enlightened ideas, and was an influential leader in the Quito separatist movement. As a hygienist, he authored a groundbreaking treatise on the health conditions in colonial Ecuador, with prescient observations on the role of microorganisms in the spread of diseases. Espejo was also a satirist who fearlessly exposed the corruption and lack of education in the Royal Audiencia, and the shortcomings of its culture, through his critical and witty literary works. Despite facing persecution and imprisonment during his lifetime, Espejo’s unwavering commitment to truth-telling has left an enduring legacy in Ecuadorian history.