Chronicle of a Death Foretold: A Novel of Fate and Honor

Posted on Oct 5, 2024 in Religion

Chronicle of a Death Foretold

Structure

The narration unfolds in a non-linear, circular structure. The narrator jumps back and forth in time, recounting events, dialogues, and testimonials from various characters, including Angela Vicario and Bayardo San Roman, years after Santiago Nasar’s death. This back-and-forth movement emphasizes the central theme of the work.

Part 1: Introduction

This section introduces Santiago Nasar and his community. It reveals the who, when, and how of the murder, along with contributing circumstances. We learn about Angela Vicario, the wedding celebration, Santiago Nasar’s involvement, and the bishop’s journey.

Part 2: Bayardo San Roman

This part focuses on Bayardo San Roman, his family, his relationship with Angela Vicario, the wedding preparations, and the couple’s return home. The tension rises as Angela is returned to her family, leading to the accusation against Santiago Nasar.

Part 3: The Vicario Brothers

This section details the circumstances leading to the murder of Santiago Nasar. Driven by a code of honor, Pedro and Pablo Vicario pursue and punish Santiago.

Part 4: Aftermath

Beginning with Santiago Nasar’s autopsy and burial, this part describes the unrest in the town and the potential for revenge. The chronological placement of this section contributes to the novel’s circular structure.

Part 5: Closure

After exploring the town’s reaction and the legal aspects of the crime, the narrator returns to the pursuit and death of Santiago Nasar. The plot has two closures: Santiago’s death and the reunion of Angela and Bayardo.

Setting

The story primarily takes place in a central plaza and surrounding houses. The plaza is where the wedding festivities occur and where the murder takes place. Santiago Nasar’s house, which could have been a refuge, is mentioned repeatedly.

Time

While appearing linear, the novel operates on two temporal levels. The reader knows from the beginning that Santiago Nasar will die, while the narrator’s time encompasses the investigation, the events, and the memories of those involved, creating a circular timeline.

Language and Style

  • Colloquialisms and Americanisms reflect the rural setting.
  • Similes and metaphors create vivid imagery.
  • Hyperbole adds a sense of exaggeration and drama.
  • Enumerations and polysyndeton create a sense of abundance and detail.
  • Sensual and erotic references contribute to the novel’s atmosphere.

Narrative Technique

The novel employs a third-person narrator, using a non-linear timeline and a detailed setting to explore themes of fate, honor, and revenge.