The Mayor of Zalamea: Honor and Justice
The Mayor of Zalamea: A Study of Honor
Student Reflections on the Play
Students explain in writing how the play raises the issue of honor. How does the human drama of a man, who, according to the time’s code, must kill his daughter if she had been abducted and raped, unfold? How does Pedro Crespo resolve this? The three best works in class may be presented, giving rise to discussions.
This work indirectly raises the two perspectives on honor: social class versus individual actions. Pedro Crespo’s honor, and that of his family, is tarnished when his daughter is raped. He decides to resolve it cleverly: he tries to convince the general to marry his daughter. The general refuses, and Crespo, taking up his position as mayor, sentences the general to death. This decision is ultimately welcomed by the king, thus restoring the family’s honor.
Student Interpretations and Key Messages
Each student will explain what aspect of Calderón’s work has been of interest or moved them. Does it contain any interesting message for the viewer?
Undoubtedly, the most moving part of the play is the scene in which Pedro Crespo speaks with his daughter and forgives her. This demonstrates his progressive character and understanding, showing his love and respect for her.
Characters
- King Philip II
- Don Lope de Figueroa
- Don Alvaro de Ataide (Captain)
- A Sergeant
- The Spark, Rebolledo (Soldiers)
- Pedro Crespo (Farmer and later, Mayor)
- John (Son of Pedro Crespo)
- Isabel (Daughter of Pedro Crespo)
- Inés (Isabel’s Cousin)
- Don Mendo (A Gentleman)
- Nuño (Don Mendo’s Servant)
- Soldiers, A Drum, Thieves, Accompaniment
Central Idea
The daughter of Pedro Crespo, an honest and wealthy citizen of Zalamea, is violated by a captain of the tercio, a military unit accompanying King Philip II on his way to be crowned King of Portugal.
Theme
The theme revolves around Crespo, who is appointed mayor of Zalamea. As mayor, he confronts the offender of his daughter, asking him to repair the wrong by marrying her.
Relationship of Title to the Work
Pedro Crespo is appointed mayor of a town called Zalamea and is the main character of the work. Hence, the title is The Mayor of Zalamea.
Structure of the Work
The play is structured in three acts (“days”). The first act has eighteen scenes, the second twenty-six, and the third eighteen. It is based on dialogues and various asides.
Time and Setting
The work is set in the 16th century, near the time of Philip II’s reign, a time characterized by a strong emphasis on honor and God, and when armies were prevalent.
Language and Literary Devices
- Active Language: “Well, listen before speaking.”
- Expressive Language: “See that wicked rigor.”
- Formal Language: “For what we…”
- Colloquial Language: “…A thief, a hen, and a wretched…”
- Regional Language: “Flee thee.”
- Learned Language: “Passing attempts.”
- General Language: “I commend my brother.”
Literary Devices:
- Epithet
- Synaesthesia
- Alliteration
- Reduplication
- Anaphora
Dominant Mode: Narration, Description, or Dialogue?
Dialogue dominates the play.
Example:
Both Inés makes sense;
To live so afflicted,
It is to live, kill it.
Living the skies!
Genre
The work belongs to the genre of drama, as it mixes elements of comedy and tragedy.
Conclusion
This work provides insights into the culture, problems, and tragedies of the time. It also shows how people of high status or power behaved, and the “wild” nature of life back then.
Commentary
The story is simple and a frequent occurrence in the Spanish drama of the day.
I believe the play presents some compelling ideas, but they are very old-fashioned, particularly regarding honor. The use of archaic Castilian verse also detracts from comprehension. Personally, I prefer more modern works.