La casa de Bernarda Alba

Definition

La casa de Bernarda Alba is a powerful play by Federico García Lorca that explores themes of repression, social class, and the role of women in society. It tells the story of a strict matriarch, Bernarda, who imposes a mourning period on her daughters after her husband's death, leading to a suffocating atmosphere that reveals deep-seated desires and conflicts. The play serves as a critique of societal norms and the oppression faced by women in early 20th century Spain, connecting with broader movements in modern literature and theater.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The play was first performed in 1936, shortly before García Lorca was executed during the Spanish Civil War, making it a poignant reflection on the sociopolitical climate of the time.
2. Bernarda Alba's character represents the oppressive forces of traditional values and societal expectations imposed on women, leading to tragic consequences for her daughters.
3. The setting of the play, primarily within the confines of Bernarda's home, symbolizes the isolation and entrapment experienced by the female characters.
4. Each daughter embodies different responses to their mother's authoritarianism; for example, Adela represents rebellion against repression, while Angustias is more compliant.
5. The play employs strong symbolic elements, such as the color black representing mourning and the use of space to illustrate confinement and lack of freedom.

Review Questions

• How does García Lorca use the character of Bernarda to reflect societal norms and expectations regarding women in early 20th century Spain?
  • García Lorca portrays Bernarda as a strict matriarch who embodies societal norms that demand subservience from women. Her oppressive behavior towards her daughters showcases the limitations placed on them by tradition and the desire for control. Through Bernarda's actions and beliefs, the play critiques the patriarchal structures that dictate women's roles and highlight the damaging effects of such repression on both individual lives and familial relationships.
• Discuss how La casa de Bernarda Alba incorporates elements of symbolism to enhance its themes of repression and desire.
  • Symbolism is integral to La casa de Bernarda Alba as it deepens the understanding of its central themes. The house itself represents confinement and societal restrictions on women, while colors like black symbolize mourning and loss. Additionally, objects like the 'fan' become metaphors for femininity and seduction. These symbols illustrate not only the repression faced by the characters but also their unfulfilled desires, emphasizing how external societal pressures stifle their individuality.
• Evaluate how La casa de Bernarda Alba fits into the broader context of modern literature and theater movements during the early 20th century.
  • La casa de Bernarda Alba aligns with modern literature and theater movements that sought to challenge traditional narratives and explore psychological depth. The play reflects existential concerns prevalent in the early 20th century, particularly regarding identity and freedom. García Lorca's use of poetic language and innovative structure positions it alongside works that question societal norms, making it a significant piece that influenced subsequent generations of playwrights. Its focus on women's experiences contributes to ongoing discussions about gender roles in literature and society.

Related terms

Género: A term that refers to gender, often discussed in the context of social roles and expectations, particularly regarding women in literature.

Repression: The act of suppressing or holding back emotions, desires, or thoughts, which is a central theme in García Lorca's work.

Tragicomedy: A literary genre that blends elements of tragedy and comedy; García Lorca often infused his plays with dark humor amidst serious themes.