Pedro Sánchez: Analysis of Major Characters
"Pedro Sánchez: Analysis of Major Characters" explores the complex relationships and narratives surrounding the titular character, Pedro Sánchez, a provincial man who ventures to Madrid, seeking opportunity and a new life. Initially naive and unaware of the broader political landscape, Pedro finds work at the antigovernment newspaper El Clarín, where he becomes embroiled in revolutionary fervor. His rise following a government overthrow leads to a governorship and marriage to Clara, but his fortunes quickly decline, culminating in a return to his roots marked by disillusionment.
The character of Augusto Valenzuela is presented as a dubious politician who fails to support Pedro as promised, while Clara, Valenzuela's daughter, becomes a symbol of betrayal in Pedro's life. Other significant figures include Serafín Balduque, a friend whose tragic fate underscores the dangers of political conflict, and Carmen, Pedro’s second wife, whose death adds to his sense of loss. The narrative also features Mata, a supportive friend who helps Pedro adapt to city life, and Redondo, the editor of El Clarín, who plays a pivotal role in Pedro's journalistic career. Through these characters, the analysis delves into themes of ambition, betrayal, and the harsh realities of political life.
Pedro Sánchez: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: José María de Pereda
First published: 1883
Genre: Novel
Locale: Santander and Madrid, Spain
Plot: Picaresque
Time: 1852–1879
Pedro Sánchez (PEH-droh SAHN-chehs), a provincial. Ignorant of the world outside his native region, he sets out for Madrid. He finds a job on the antigovernment newspaper El Clarín, where he wins a certain notoriety for criticism of a literary work by a member of the opposition; eventually, he catches the revolutionary fever of his fellow employees. When the government is overthrown, Pedro is rewarded with a provincial governorship, and he marries Clara. From this time on, his fortunes decline. Finally, he returns to his native mountains, where he writes the story of his disillusionment.
Augusto Valenzuela (ow-GEWS-toh vahl-ehn-SWEH-lah), a shady politician who promises Pedro Sánchez that he will see to his future when the boy comes to Madrid. He gives Pedro a cold reception when he presents himself in the city.
Clara (KLAHR-ah), Augusto Valenzuela's daughter, who is later Pedro Sánchez' extravagant and faithless first wife.
Serafín Balduque (sehr-ah-FEEN bahl-DEW-keh), Pedro Sánchez' friend, a former state employee who is killed in street fighting against government forces.
Carmen, Serafín Balduque's daughter and Pedro Sánchez' second wife, who, with their small son, dies during an epidemic.
Mata (MAH-tah), also called Matica (mah-TEE-kah), a student who befriends Pedro Sánchez when he arrives in Madrid and finds him a job on El Clarín.
Redondo (rreh-DOHN-doh), the editor of El Clarín.
Pilita (pee-LEE-tah), the wife of Augusto Valenzuela.
Barrientos (bah-rree-EHN-tohs), Governor Pedro Sánchez' secretary, who is a collector of bribes and the lover of Pedro's wife Clara.