Analysis of Characters and Events in Niebla by Miguel de Unamuno

Posted on Oct 2, 2024 in Language

Character Analysis in Niebla by Miguel de Unamuno

Augusto Perez

  • Reflexive:

    Augusto constantly reflects on his actions and those of others. For example, he discusses events with his dog, Orpheus, and analyzes love and relationships with his friend Victor.

  • Lovesick:

    Augusto experiences intense passion for women after a long period of solitude. This is evident in his confusion between Eugenia and Rosario and his conversations with Victor about falling in love.

  • Filial Love:

    Augusto deeply loves his mother and frequently reminisces about her, imagining her reactions to his actions and recalling childhood memories.

Eugenia Domingo del Arco

  • Proud:

    Eugenia initially treats Augusto with indifference and maintains her pride even after he settles the mortgage on her house.

  • Infidel:

    Eugenia’s infidelity is revealed when she leaves the city with Mauricio before her marriage to Augusto, despite their engagement.

  • Endeavoring:

    Eugenia demonstrates determination by stating her commitment to Mauricio, regardless of his unemployment, and working hard to repay the mortgage.

Rosario

  • True:

    Rosario’s genuine love for Augusto is evident, despite Mauricio’s attempts to create conflict. She remains faithful and devoted to Augusto.

  • Compliant:

    As a servant, Rosario displays obedience to her employers. However, she maintains respect and decorum even in more informal interactions with Augusto.

  • Suspicious:

    Rosario expresses insecurity and suspicion about Augusto’s feelings for other women, particularly Eugenia.

Ermelinda

  • Ambitious:

    Ermelinda’s ambition is evident in her persistent encouragement for Eugenia to marry Augusto for his wealth.

  • Conflict-Prone:

    Ermelinda frequently engages in arguments with her husband, Don Fermín, on various topics such as anarchism and Esperanto.

  • Conservative:

    Ermelinda’s traditional views are highlighted by her disapproval of Eugenia’s relationship with Mauricio while he is unemployed, expecting him to be the provider.

Key Events and Themes

Augusto’s Encounters

Augusto’s aimless walk leads him to encounter a “graceful girl” whom he follows, only to discover it is a puppy. This puppy, Orpheus, becomes his loyal companion and confidant.

Eugenia’s Rejection

Augusto’s attempt to win Eugenia’s affection by paying off her mortgage backfires. Eugenia is angered by his presumption and reveals her love for another man, rejecting his advances.

Novel vs. Nivola

Augusto’s conversation with Victor about the concept of “nivola” raises questions about the nature of reality and fiction in his life. The blurring of boundaries between his experiences and the author’s narrative creates confusion and uncertainty.

Chapter XXIX Summary

Augusto faces devastation when Eugenia leaves him for Mauricio just before their wedding. He contemplates suicide and seeks advice from Miguel de Unamuno, a character in the novel. Unamuno initially discourages him but eventually agrees to write about his death. Augusto ultimately dies upon returning home, leaving Unamuno to grapple with the implications of his fictional creation’s demise.