Historical and Social Context Flashcards
How was Andalucia characterised at the beginning of the 20th century?
Characterised by illiteracy (analfabetismo) and the concentration of land between landowners (terratenientes)
What obsession and fear did people have?
Obsession with privacy and fear of being exposed
What government was in power in Spain in 1936?
La Segunda Republica Espanola (1931-1939)
How does the Segunda Republica Espanola represent behaviours in the play?
During this time, there was an emphasis on tradition which led to political and domestic violence
This violence is exemplified in the brutal repression that Bernarda imposes on her daughters and mother
It is also exemplified in society, with the daughter of La Librada murdering her illegitimate child, and the dislike of “easy” women
What specific place in Andalusia did Lorca base the play on?
Valderrubio, the village he lived in as a child
How was social class (estamento) determined?
By blood (sangre) and last name (apellido)
Why is Angustias more sought after (codiciada) by suitors?
Due to her being the only daughter from Bernarda’s first marriage, she inherited more money from her father
What were social classes like in 20th century Andalusia?
Static, did not mix and followed strict rules of interaction
How do we know that Bernarda’s first husband was of a high status?
The whole town went to his funeral, demonstrating his popularity and value in society
Why does the fact that Angustias is richer than the other daughters cause tension?
Because it triggers envy and distrust amongst the other sisters; Angustias’ wealth is the only reason why suitors want to marry her
How were women in 20th century Andalusia expected to be?
“angel de hogar” = angel of the home, focus on domestic household chores such as sewing
“dulce esposa” = sweet wife, obedient and submissive to their husband
“madre solicita” = solicitous mother, showing attentive care and protectiveness
Followed strict rules of decorum (decoro)
Matriarchy was commonplace in the home
Why does Bernarda have to maintain a serious image and an honourable household?
Because she is a widow who has been married twice; could be seen as an “easy” or weak woman by society
What time period was sewing passed down as a tradition from?
Moorish (moro) times
What would happen to women if they broke strict gender roles?
They would become a subject of gossip (el que diran)
Which character represents how women are looked down upon for being sexually liberated/promiscuous?
the daughter of La Librada; she had a baby out of wedlock (un niño fuera del matrimonio) which she murdered due to shame and embarrassment
How did men/suitors court women in 20th century Andalusia?
They would go to the reja (window with bars) and flirt with the women through the bars at certain times, usually in the evening
This tradition comes from Moorish/Muslim influence
What is the tradition for suitors when proposing to a woman?
As a proposal (pedido de mano), the suitor gives the woman a diamond ring and the woman presents a trousseau (ajuar)
Why was it essential for people to keep up appearances when it came to suitors and potential marriage?
Because the potential couple would be observed by people of the town who would approve if the match was suitable or not
What were some of the ways that men would declare their love for a woman at the reja?
Give her a rose through the bars, sing her a love song
What type of ring does Pepe gift Angustias?
A pearl ring, which subverts from traditional diamond ring
Why is Angustias’ pearl ring a bad omen?
Because pearls are believed to represent tears and crying, which is a bad sign of marriage
What traditions are observed in Spain when someone dies?
The body of the deceased is veiled for a short amount of time before being buried
Mourners then follow a Catholic ritual, chanting letanias (short, one-phrase prayers) and pray using rosary beads
The neighbourhood goes to the house of the widow to attend the wake and express their condolences
Everyone dresses completely in black clothing (vestir de luto)
People cry loudly; in rich towns people even paid “lloronas” to cry
How does Lorca dramatize the period of mourning?
He extends it to 8 years for dramatic effect
What is it called in Spanish when someone “breaks the mourning”? e.g. when Adela hands Bernarda a colourful fan instead of a black one
rompe el luto
What religions have taken precedence in Andalusia over the years?
Christianity, Islam and Judaism
Which buildings in Andalusia represent the different religious influences of the area?
La Mezquita y La Sinagoga in Cordoba
La Catedral in Seville
What was the main religion in 20th century Andalusia?
Catholicism
