The Kiss of the Spider Woman: A Summary and Character Analysis
Summary of The Kiss of the Spider Woman
Imprisonment and an Unlikely Bond
The Kiss of the Spider Woman tells the story of two men imprisoned under a repressive regime: Valentin Arregui Paz, a revolutionary, and Luis Alberto Molina, a homosexual stained-glass designer. Valentin, arrested during a guerrilla demonstration, shares a cell with Molina, arrested for corruption of minors. Molina, initially seeking a conditional release by providing information on Valentin’s revolutionary group, recounts movie plots to pass the time. Their relationship evolves, marked by shared experiences and a growing affection.
A Delicate Balance of Trust and Betrayal
The prison director attempts to poison Valentin using Molina as an intermediary. Both men fall ill. Molina, despite his own suffering, cares for Valentin. They develop a deep bond, sharing intimate moments. Molina promises to deliver a message to Valentin’s revolutionary group upon his release. However, Molina’s conditional release leads to constant surveillance. A meeting with the guerrillas is misinterpreted, resulting in Molina’s interrogation and Valentin’s death under torture.
Dreams and Finality
The novel concludes with Valentin, sedated, dreaming of his mother, Martha, and Molina. The title, The Kiss of the Spider Woman, is inspired by Molina’s movie tales and his unique perspective.
Character Analysis
Molina
Molina (37), a sentimental and faithful gay man, is imprisoned for corruption of minors. He is a skilled storyteller, deeply caring, and appreciative of his mother. He identifies as a woman and maintains friendships with other gay men, though not sexually.
Valentin
Valentin (26), an aspiring revolutionary ideologue, is imprisoned for his political activism. He is studious, reserved, and deeply committed to his ideals. He loves Marta and develops a strong bond with Molina.
Supporting Characters
- Gabriel: Molina’s former lover, a disciplined and serious man.
- Martha: Valentin’s former lover, initially involved in the revolutionary movement but later distanced herself.
- Agnes: A fellow revolutionary.
- Molina’s Mother: A devoted and accepting woman.
- Valentin’s Mother: A critical and disapproving woman.
- The Director: The prison director who makes a deal with Molina.
- The Non-Commissioned Officer: The prison guard.
- Molina’s Friends: Gay men who share Molina’s perspective.
- Valentin’s Fellow Revolutionaries: Members of Valentin’s revolutionary group.