Fuenteovejuna: A Tale of Justice Against Tyranny
Fuenteovejuna
Synopsis
This play explores the uprising of the people against the Commander’s abuse of power, highlighting the social conflict between the feudal lord and his vassals. The first act reveals the Commander’s tyranny, focusing on his abuse of Laurencia and the “right of the first night.” The villagers, seeking justice, take matters into their own hands and ask the king to endorse their actions. Their unity is key to their success; even under torture, no one reveals the individuals responsible for the Commander’s death. The collective response to the judge’s question encapsulates their solidarity: “Who killed the Commander? / Fuenteovejuna, my lord. / Who is Fuenteovejuna? / All as one, my lord.” The monarchs arrive to restore order and acknowledge the justice of the village’s actions. The play contrasts Frondoso and Laurencia’s genuine love with the Commander’s lustful desires.
The play also delves into themes of love and ambition. Laurencia and Frondoso’s love story unfolds against the backdrop of the Commander’s interference. The people’s desire for justice counterbalances the Commander’s abuse of power.
Act I: Seeds of Rebellion
The Commander, Fernán Gómez, arrives at the house of Master Rodrigo Téllez Girón, where he discusses the conquest of Ciudad Real with his men. This conversation hints at the growing rebellion against the Catholic Monarchs, King Ferdinand of Aragon and Queen Isabella. The Commander’s dialogue reveals his manipulative nature and foreshadows future conflicts. Lope de Vega emphasizes the Commander’s youth and the Master’s complete trust in him, setting the stage for the unfolding events.
A conversation between Pascuala and Laurencia reveals the Commander’s unwanted advances toward Laurencia. Laurencia remains steadfast in her refusal, despite Pascuala’s warning that many others have succumbed to the Commander’s pressure. The arrival of Frondoso, Mengo, and other villagers shifts the conversation to a debate about the nature of love. The arrival of Flores, one of the Commander’s men, interrupts the discussion with news of the recent battle. The Commander’s attempt to force himself upon Pascuala and Laurencia at their doorstep marks the first act of aggression against the women of Fuenteovejuna.
Act II: Escalating Tensions
The act opens with a discussion on astrology, which transitions into a conversation about the University of Salamanca. Juan Rojo’s complaints about the village’s poor harvest and the Commander’s mismanagement highlight the growing discontent. The villagers’ confrontation with the Commander leads to threats of retaliation. A soldier’s arrival with news of the Catholic Monarchs’ advance on Ciudad Real forces the Commander to depart. Before leaving, he attempts to abduct another woman, but Mengo intervenes, earning the Commander’s wrath. Frondoso’s bravery in defending Laurencia strengthens their bond, and her father, the mayor, approves of their relationship. Amidst the wedding celebrations of Laurencia and Frondoso, the Commander returns and imprisons them.
Act III: Justice Served
The villagers gather to discuss the Commander’s actions and the need for justice. Laurencia, having escaped from prison, urges them to act. Her plea, along with Mengo’s account of his own mistreatment, fuels the villagers’ anger. They decide to take justice into their own hands, storming the Commander’s house and killing him. Despite their lack of weapons, they are united in their purpose, acting in the name of Fuenteovejuna and the Catholic Monarchs. The villagers kill the Commander and display his head on a pike. When questioned by the judge, the villagers’ collective response remains: “Who killed the Commander? / Fuenteovejuna, my lord. / Who is Fuenteovejuna? / All as one, my lord.” King Ferdinand, initially perplexed, listens to the villagers’ explanation of their actions. Recognizing the justice of their cause, he absolves them of all blame.