Sotileza: Analysis of Major Characters
"Sotileza: Analysis of Major Characters" explores the lives and relationships of several key figures in a narrative centered on the character Sotileza, an orphan known for her delicate nature and strong moral values. The protagonist's name reflects her daintiness, appealing to men but choosing to remain virtuous until she ultimately accepts a proposal from Cleto, Mocejón's son. Mocejón, her guardian, harbors a dislike for her, creating tension in her life. Carpia, Mocejón's daughter, is portrayed as jealous of Sotileza, adding another layer of conflict.
Supporting characters include Andrés Bitadura, a friend of Sotileza who, despite his mother's fears of the sea, displays bravery reminiscent of his father, Captain Pedro Bitadura. The story also features Padre Apolinar, who plays a role in placing Sotileza under the care of Mechelín, a crippled fisherman who becomes her foster father. Tragedy strikes with the drowning of Mechelín's son, Muergo. The narrative further introduces Venancio Liencres, a merchant, and his children, Luisa and Tolín, who become entwined in the lives of the main characters. This analysis provides insight into the complex dynamics and emotional struggles faced by each character within their social and familial contexts.
Sotileza: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: José María de Pereda
First published: 1884 (English translation, 1959)
Genre: Novel
Locale: Santander, Spain
Plot: Regional
Time: 1880
Silda (SEEL-dah), an orphan called Sotileza (soh-teeLEH-zah) because she is as dainty as a fishing-line leader. Attractive to men, though not beautiful, she is a paragon of virtue and rejects all advances until faithful Cleto proposes.
Mocejón (moh-seh-HOHN), her guardian, who dislikes her.
Carpia (KAHR-pee-ah), Mocejón's nineteen-year-old daughter, who is jealous of Sotileza.
Cleto (KLEH-toh), Mocejón's son, who marries Sotileza after being drafted into the navy.
Andrés Bitadura (ahn-DREHS bee-tah-DEW-rah), a friend of Sotileza. Kept away from the sea by his frightened mother, he reveals his father's blood by saving a boat during a storm.
Captain Pedro Bitadura (PEH-droh), the father of Andrés and the captain of the SS Montañesa.
Padre Apolinar (ah-poh-lee-NAHR), who puts Sotileza into Mechelín's care.
Mechelín (meh-cheh-LEEN), a crippled fisherman who becomes Sotileza's foster father.
Muergo (MWEHR-goh), Mechelín's son, who is drowned in an accident at sea.
Venancio Liencres (veh-NAHN-see-oh lee-EHN-krehs), a merchant to whom Andrés is apprenticed.
Luisa (lew-EE-sah), his daughter, who loves Andrés.
Tolín (toh-LEEN), her brother.
Reñales (rehn-YAH-lehs), a friend of Andrés.