41 pages • 1 hour read
Fuenteovejuna
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Book Brief
192
Play • Fiction
Fuente Obejuna, Spain • 1470s
1618
Adult
16-18 years
Super Short Summary
Fuenteovejuna by Lope de Vega takes place in the town of Fuenteovejuna, where the cruel Commander mistreats the townspeople, sparking the villagers to rise up against him after he attempts to rape Laurencia and unjustly arrests her lover, Frondoso. When the community collectively revolts and kills the Commander, they later face an investigation but refuse to disclose individual responsibility, leading to a royal pardon. This play contains themes of sexual violence, brutality, and collective justice.
Gritty
Inspirational
Emotional
Challenging
Reviews & Readership
10,670 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Lope de Vega's Fuenteovejuna receives acclaim for its compelling portrayal of collective action and social justice, highlighting powerful themes of unity and resistance. Critics praise its well-crafted characters and enduring relevance. However, some find its historical context challenging and certain dramatic elements heavy-handed. Overall, it is lauded as a powerful classic.
Who Should Read Fuenteovejuna?
Readers who enjoy Fuenteovejuna by Lope de Vega typically have a passion for classic literature, historical dramas, and themes of social justice. Fans of Shakespeare's works, such as Henry V, and those who appreciate the communal resistance depicted in George Orwell's Animal Farm would find this play compelling.
10,670 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Laurencia
Laurencia
A strong-willed citizen of Fuenteovejuna and daughter of the mayor, who is central to the townspeople's resistance against the Commander.
Frondoso
Frondoso
A resident of Fuenteovejuna who starts as Laurencia's secret lover and ultimately becomes her husband, playing a key role in defending her.
Esteban
Esteban
The mayor of Fuenteovejuna and Laurencia's father, balancing traditional values with cautious leadership.
Flores and Ortuño
Flores and Ortuño
Officers in the Commander's army who carry out his orders in Fuenteovejuna but show some sympathy towards the townspeople.
Ferdinand and Isabella
Ferdinand and Isabella
The Catholic King and Queen, indirectly influence the play's events with their decisions, framing the broader political backdrop.
192
Play • Fiction
Fuente Obejuna, Spain • 1470s
1618
Adult
16-18 years
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