Why Is Fuente Ovejuna So Important In Spanish

Spanish culture in late 1500s to the late 1600s is frequently referred to as the “Spanish Golden Age”. This is a period that is characterized as a time of "vitality, exuberance, and a zest of living”. These ideals are combined with interesting social constructs to create a new type of Spanish culture. During this important time in Spain’s history, the most popular playwright of the time helped exemplify the cultural values and attitudes. Lope Felix de Vega Carpio wrote his masterpiece, Fuente Ovejuna, in 1614 and told the story of two rebellions: the Master of the Order of Calatrava and his Commendador against the King and Queen, and the peasants against the Commendador. Lope’s comedia eventually end with a celebration of Spain’s “common people” and a celebration of the Queen and King’s power in the country. Fuente Ovejuna reflects Spanish history and cultural values by: showing specific elements of Spanish history in the
What good would it do me to fall for Fernando? Do you think he’d marry me?
Pascuala: No.
Laurencia: Then I’ll have nothing to do with him. How many girls in our village have put their trust in the Commander, and seen their reputation shot to pieces” (Act 1, Scene 2).
This interaction further solidifies the idea that a woman’s only choices are marriage or joining the convent. Other sexual experiences are a cause of dishonor in Spanish culture. Lope de Vega is able to intertwine historical events and fictional character to create his famous play. Fuente Ovejuna uses specific elements of Spanish history and the ideals and cultures of the Spanish Golden Age. Lope is able to neatly tie the play up with a pardon from King Ferdinand for the villagers and a death to the villain Commander. Harmony is finally brought to the village of Fuenteovejuna. “This was a terrible crime: but as there’s no evidence to prove who is responsible, I believe we’ve no choice but to pardon you” (Act 3, Scene