Gongorism is a literary style that emerged in 17th-century Spain, named after the poet Luis de Góngora. It is characterized by its elaborate and ornate language, often featuring complex metaphors, intricate wordplay, and a focus on aesthetic beauty. This style aimed to elevate poetry and prose, making it more sophisticated and challenging for readers. The movement was a reaction against the simpler, more straightforward style of Francesco Petrarca and other earlier poets. While Gongorism was influential, it also faced criticism for being overly complicated and inaccessible, leading to a literary debate between proponents of ornate language and those favoring clarity and simplicity.