Oppression and Freedom in Lorca’s “The House of Bernarda Alba”
Main Issues in Lorca’s The House of Bernarda Alba
Authoritarianism vs. Freedom
The play’s central conflict revolves around Bernarda Alba’s authoritarianism, which enforces oppressive norms based on her position as head of the household. This clashes with the yearning for freedom, primarily embodied by Maria Josefa (Bernarda’s mother) and Adela. Bernarda’s daughters, living under constant fear, only dare to whisper their dissent. Adela’s defiance is evident from the start: she wears a green dress and red flowers, symbolizing her rebellious spirit. Her ultimate act of defiance is breaking Bernarda’s cane, but her subsequent suicide tragically closes off the path to freedom for her sisters.
Maria Josefa’s madness serves as another form of rebellion, a desperate escape from her confinement. Both Adela’s suicide and Maria Josefa’s madness highlight the devastating consequences of Bernarda’s oppression.
Secondary Issues
Sensual Love and the Absence of Men
Bernarda’s tyrannical rule imposes mourning on her daughters, denying them any possibility of love or marriage. The arrival of Pepe el Romano ignites their passions, representing a potential escape from Bernarda’s tyranny.
Hypocrisy and False Appearances
The play explores the theme of hypocrisy, fueled by a concern for social appearances and the fear of gossip. This is symbolized by Bernarda’s obsession with cleanliness. Martirio and Bernarda exemplify this concern for appearances, masking their true feelings.
Hatred and Envy
Hatred and envy dominate the relationships within the household. Bernarda is hated by her daughters and neighbors, while the sisters harbor envy and resentment towards each other, particularly towards Adela.
Social Injustice and the Marginalization of Women
Lorca critiques the social injustices of his time, highlighting class differences and the marginalization of women. Bernarda’s cruelty towards those of lower social standing underscores this disparity. Women are confined to limited roles, with those who deviate facing societal condemnation. Lorca contrasts the “moral laxity” of figures like Paca la Roseta with the “decency” expected of Bernarda’s daughters, both of which restrict women’s freedom. The play emphasizes the unequal treatment of men and women, particularly in the realms of work, law, and love, where women’s desires are suppressed. Family honor is inextricably linked to women’s behavior, further limiting their autonomy.