Fuente Ovejuna: A Summary
Fuente Ovejuna: A Summary
Argument: Act I
The Catholic Kings are informed of the victory in Ciudad Real and send aldermen to find Fernan Gomez, the Commander of Fuente Ovejuna. Laurencia encounters Frondoso and declares her love for him. She hides when the Commander approaches. He tries to force himself on her, but Frondoso appears with a crossbow and scares him off. The Commander vows revenge for this insult.
Argument: Act II
The act begins with a discussion about astrology, which shifts to the usefulness of the University of Salamanca. Juan Rojo complains about the poor harvest, blaming the Commander’s tyranny. The Commander arrives and promises to address their concerns, but then leaves for Ciudad Real to fight for the Catholic Monarchs. Before leaving, he attempts to assault a woman, but Mengo stops him. Frondoso and Laurencia reaffirm their love, and Laurencia’s father approves of their relationship. In Ciudad Real, the Commander loses the battle and is advised to flee. Back in Fuente Ovejuna, Frondoso and Laurencia’s wedding celebration is interrupted by the Commander, who confronts the couple.
Argument: Act III
The villagers discuss the Commander’s behavior and whether he deserves punishment. Laurencia, having escaped imprisonment, joins the council and speaks out against the Commander’s injustices. The villagers decide to take justice into their own hands and kill the Commander. They storm his palace, kill him, and display his head on a pike. Flores, one of the Commander’s servants, survives and informs the King of the rebellion. King Fernando sends a judge to investigate. The villagers of Fuente Ovejuna all claim responsibility for the Commander’s death. After a thorough investigation, the judge returns to the King and explains the situation. The King, understanding the villagers’ grievances, absolves them of all blame.