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118
Play • Fiction
Seville, Spain • 16th Century
1844
Adult
15-18 years
Don Juan Tenorio by José Zorrilla y Moral follows the exploits of the libertine Don Juan, who indulges in debauchery and engages in a bet with Don Luis Mejia to see who can cause more harm in a year. This leads Don Juan to seduce and kidnap brides, causing multiple deaths. Eventually, he finds redemption through the love of the pure-hearted novice, Dona Ines, who dies after falling for him.
Romantic
Mysterious
Fantastical
Bittersweet
Emotional
Don Juan Tenorio by José Zorrilla y Moral is praised for its vibrant characters, poetic dialogue, and enduring themes of love, honor, and redemption. However, some critics find its plot predictable and its moralizing tone slightly overbearing. Overall, it remains a cherished classic in Spanish literature, celebrated for its artistic merit and emotional depth.
Readers who enjoy Don Juan Tenorio by José Zorrilla y Moral are typically fans of romantic drama and classic literature, similar to those who appreciate Romeo and Juliet by Shakespeare or The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas. They revel in themes of love, honor, and redemption set against an atmospheric historical backdrop.
Don Luis Mejia
Don Juan’s rival, similar in nature as a pleasure-seeking gallant who participates in the same bet with a focus on reputation and bravado. He is engaged to Dona Ana.
Don Gonzalo de Ulloa
Dona Ines’s father, a stern and honorable knight commander who takes great care for his daughter’s future and confronts Don Juan regarding his intentions.
Don Diego Tenorio
Father of Don Juan, a noble and intelligent man who seeks to understand his son's true character by observing his actions and their consequences.
Dona Inés de Ulloa
A devout young woman living in a convent who becomes involved with Don Juan. She is characterized by her virtuous nature and inner strength.
Cristófano Buttarelli
Owner of a tavern where key discussions regarding the bet take place. He allows others to eavesdrop and admires Don Juan for his charisma.
Marcos Ciutti
Don Juan’s servant, known for his indulgent lifestyle paid for by his master. He assists in scheming to fulfill Don Juan's objectives.
Dona Ana de Pantoja
Fiancée of Don Luis Mejia, engaged in a relationship underscored by loyalty and promises, and becomes involved in Don Juan's schemes.
Brigida
Servant to Dona Ines, motivated by money and instrumental in manipulating her mistress’s perception of Don Juan.
Captain Centellas
A friend who supports Don Luis in the wager, exhibiting keen observation and a moral perspective on Don Juan’s actions.
Don Rafael de Avellaneda
An impulsive friend of Don Luis, later associated with Don Juan. He wagers blindly based on knowledge of Don Luis’s past.
Pascual
A loyal servant of Don Luis who cooperates in the second bet but advises against it, indicating his practical nature.
Lucía
Dona Ana's maid, driven by financial gain and easily swayed to aid Don Juan’s plans despite her mistress's engagement.
Town Guardsmen
Witnesses to key events related to the wager and later provide context to Don Juan about developments concerning a cemetery.
118
Play • Fiction
Seville, Spain • 16th Century
1844
Adult
15-18 years
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