Rinconete & Cortadillo: A Tale of Seville’s Underworld
Rinconete & Cortadillo
Characters
- Pedro del Rincón (Rinconete): A 15-year-old boy skilled at cards. Originally from Fuenfrida, he was banished for stealing and travels to Madrid, then Seville. He befriends Cortado.
- Diego Cortado: A 15-year-old boy skilled with a knife and scissors, which he uses for theft. He leaves his hometown near Salamanca to see the world and meets Rinconete.
- Monipodio: The 45-year-old leader of Seville’s criminal underworld. He organizes and oversees the thieves’ activities.
- Chiquiznaque and Maniferro: Two members of Monipodio’s gang. Maniferro is known for his iron hand.
- Gananciosa, Escalante, and Juliana la Caricorta: Women associated with the criminal underworld.
- The Old “Hornets”: Experienced thieves who carefully plan their robberies.
- The Constable: Corrupt and complicit with Monipodio’s activities.
- Sacristán: A priest who is tricked by Rinconete and Cortadillo.
Plot Summary
Rinconete and Cortado meet at an inn and journey together to Seville seeking employment. They resort to stealing and are introduced to Monipodio, who takes them under his wing. They begin their lives as thieves, adopting the names Rinconete and Cortadillo.
Setting
The story takes place in various locations in Spain, including Alcudia, Castile, Andalusia, Fuenfrida, Madrid, Salamanca, Medina del Campo, Toledo, and primarily Seville, specifically Monipodio’s courtyard.
Themes
Religiousness
Monipodio’s gang displays a peculiar form of religiosity, praying the rosary and observing certain rituals, yet continuing their criminal activities. This highlights the hypocrisy and contradictions of their beliefs.
The Shepherd Boy
A symbolic figure representing the soul’s journey and the intersection of secular and religious themes.
Asceticism and Mysticism
The story reflects the religious climate of 16th-century Spain, influenced by both ascetic and mystic traditions.
Secular to Religious
The narrative blends secular and religious elements, drawing inspiration from both classical poetry and biblical sources.
Symbolism
The story utilizes symbolism to convey deeper meanings and explore themes of morality, faith, and the human condition.