It Is Better than It Was: Analysis of Major Characters
"It Is Better than It Was: Analysis of Major Characters" examines the intricate relationships and moral dilemmas faced by key figures in a narrative centered around themes of honor, love, and social duty. At the heart of the story is Carlos Colona, the son of the Governor of Brandenburg, whose infatuation with the veiled Flora leads to a tragic duel with her fiancé, Licio, resulting in Licio's death. This act of violence compels Carlos to seek refuge with Don Cesar, Flora's father, who grapples with conflicting loyalties between aiding a friend and upholding his responsibilities as a magistrate. Flora, caught in the turmoil, ultimately assists Carlos despite the chaos surrounding their relationship, leading to a resolution in which their identities are revealed and honor restored, culminating in their marriage. Supporting characters like Laura, Arnaldo, and Dinero enrich the narrative, adding layers to the themes of love and loyalty. The story weaves a complex tapestry of interpersonal struggles, highlighting how personal ambition can impact social bonds and moral choices. This analysis invites readers to explore the depth of these character dynamics and the societal implications of their actions.
It Is Better than It Was: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Pedro Calderón de la Barca
First published: Partes, 1636–1684
Time: Seventeenth century
Carlos Colona, the son of the Governor of Brandenburg. Attracted to a veiled lady, Flora, his efforts to speak to her cause a quarrel with her fiance, Licio, whom Don Carlos kills in the ensuing duel. He seeks asylum in the house of his father's friend, Don Cesar, the father of the veiled Flora. After a series of adventures involving disguises, recognitions, escapes, pursuits, fights, and problems of honor, Don Carlos wins Flora's hand.
Don Cesar, Flora's father and an old friend of Carlos Colona's father. When Don Carlos, after killing Licio in a duel, seeks asylum in his house, Don Cesar faces the dilemma of having to choose between the obligations of friendship, which demand that he aid the young man, and the obligations of a magistrate, which require that he arrest and execute him.
Flora, Don Cesar's daughter. Veiled, she attracts the attention of Carlos Colona, who kills her fiance Licio, in a duel. When Don Carlos arrives at her house as a fugitive seeking asylum, she hides him. After many complications her identity becomes known, everyone's honor is satisfied, and she and Don Carlos are married.
Laura, Flora's friend, who is loved by Arnaldo.
Arnaldo, Laura's suitor.
Dinero, Carlos Colona's servant.
Fabio, Laura's brother.
Silvia, Flora's servant.