Pícaro

Definition

A pícaro is a rogue or mischievous character typically found in Spanish literature, particularly in the genre known as picaresque novels. This character often embodies traits of cunning, resourcefulness, and a lack of moral integrity, navigating through various social classes while facing adversity and deception. The pícaro's adventures reveal the societal flaws and hypocrisy of the time, often with humor and satire.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The pícaro often comes from a lower social class and uses their cleverness to survive in a corrupt society.
2. The character's journey typically involves serving various masters, each representing different aspects of society.
3. Pícaros are known for their witty observations and commentary on the social norms and values of their time.
4. The concept of the pícaro laid the foundation for later literary antiheroes found in modern literature and film.
5. While humorous, the tales of the pícaro often carry deeper social critiques regarding class disparities and moral ambiguities.

Review Questions

• How does the character of the pícaro in 'Lazarillo de Tormes' reflect societal issues of 16th-century Spain?
  • The pícaro in 'Lazarillo de Tormes,' represented by Lázaro, highlights various societal issues, including poverty, social inequality, and hypocrisy among different classes. Throughout his journey, Lázaro encounters numerous masters who each reveal flaws in Spanish society, such as greed, religious corruption, and moral decay. This reflection on society through the eyes of a clever but morally ambiguous character allows readers to critique the norms and practices of the time.
• In what ways does 'Lazarillo de Tormes' innovate traditional narrative structures through its use of the pícaro?
  • 'Lazarillo de Tormes' breaks away from traditional narrative forms by presenting a first-person account that emphasizes the personal experiences and struggles of Lázaro as a pícaro. This innovative approach allows for an intimate connection between the reader and the protagonist while exploring themes of survival, identity, and social critique. By placing the pícaro at the center of the narrative, the work invites readers to engage with deeper societal questions rather than simply adhering to conventional storytelling.
• Evaluate how the character traits of the pícaro contribute to their role as a satirical vehicle in 'Lazarillo de Tormes' within the broader context of Spanish literature.
  • The traits of the pícaro serve as a crucial mechanism for satire in 'Lazarillo de Tormes.' The cleverness and adaptability of Lázaro allow him to navigate a world filled with deceit while exposing societal injustices and contradictions. His actions often challenge moral standards, making readers reflect on ethical dilemmas present in their own lives. This use of satire through the pícaro not only critiques 16th-century Spanish society but also influences future literary movements by encouraging deeper examinations of character complexity and social commentary.

Related terms

Picaresque: A literary genre that features the adventures of a pícaro, showcasing their life as a lowborn scoundrel who survives through wit and deception.

Lazarillo de Tormes:

The seminal work of the picaresque genre, presenting the life story of a young boy named Lázaro as he serves various masters while exposing the corruption and social issues of 16th-century Spain.

Antihero: A central character who lacks conventional heroic qualities and often embodies characteristics such as immorality or dishonesty, similar to a pícaro.