Trafalgar: A Novel of Spanish History
Trafalgar: A Boy’s Journey
Early Life in Cadiz
Gabriel Araceli was born in Cadiz, in the El Viña neighborhood, and grew up amidst a rude and vulgar society. His childhood was marked by mistreatment from his uncle and “adventures” with friends in the creek.
After his mother’s death, Gabriel escaped his uncle’s clutches, fleeing first to San Fernando and then to Puerto Real. In Medina-Sidonia, he met gentlemen who offered him lodging at their home in Vejer de la Frontera. There, his life revolved around housework and playing with Rosita, his young “mistress,” with whom he eventually fell in love.
The Battle of Trafalgar
One morning in early October, Don Alonso announced, despite his wife Doña Francisca’s objections, that he would join the battle against the English alongside his friend Marcial, “the Half-Man.” Fourteen-year-old Gabriel was thrilled at the prospect of boarding a warship. His excitement surged on October 18, 1805, when he set foot on the Santísima Trinidad, the largest ship in the Spanish navy.
The battle commenced on October 21st. Thirty-three British ships appeared on the horizon, relentlessly approaching the Hispano-French squadron. Gabriel was horrified as the Spanish were irrevocably defeated. Many ships were captured, including the battered Santísima Trinidad, which had to be abandoned. Prisoners and the wounded, including Rafael Malespina (Rosita’s future husband), were transferred to the Santa Ana.
The prisoners on the Santa Ana rebelled against the English, recaptured the ship, and fled to Cadiz. Both Malespina and Marcial were injured in the skirmish.
It was crucial for the wounded to reach Cadiz quickly, requiring another ship transfer. Gabriel accompanied Malespina and Marcial on the Rayo, his first time away from his master.
A storm drove the Rayo aground near the coast. Marcial and Gabriel were stranded; death seemed certain.
Miraculously, Gabriel awoke on the beach, saved at the last moment, but Marcial was dead. After recovering, he returned to his masters but felt compelled to escape when sent to serve in the newlyweds’ home.
Historical Context and Reflections
Several historical points are emphasized. Firstly, the Spanish felt antipathy towards the French, even refusing supplies to French soldiers in Cadiz. There was also deep antipathy for Godoy, “the Prince of Peace,” who was constantly criticized. It was clear that the Spanish resented the King and his favorite complying with Napoleon’s demands.
Galdós highlights the British navy’s triumph due to poor battle preparation. The King and Godoy entrusted the operation to Villeneuve. The Spanish wanted to wait for the British in port, but Villeneuve insisted on a sea battle, despite the smaller fleet.
Real historical figures appear, including Churruca, a brave sailor who discovered longitude at the port of San Andrés and died fighting on the San Juan Nepomuceno. Other Spanish figures include Gravina, Alcalá Galiano, Álava, Valdés, and Cisneros. On the English side, Collingwood and Nelson (who died aboard the Victory) are mentioned.
Characters
- Gabriel Araceli: The protagonist, witnessing the historic defeat at Trafalgar. His reflections reveal Galdós’s ideas about nationhood and the senselessness of war.
- Don Alonso: An old sailor, eager to witness the battle.
- Doña Francisca: Don Alonso’s wife, vehemently opposed to war.
- Marcial (the Half-Man): A sea-loving veteran, excited to return to the sea.
- Rosita: Gabriel’s childhood playmate and love interest, highlighting class differences.
- Rafael Malespina: Rosita’s fiancé, wounded at Trafalgar.
- José Mª Malespina: Rafael’s father.
- Doña Flor: The Alonsos’ generous host in Cadiz.
From a literary perspective, the work follows a picaresque structure. Gabriel, an old man, narrates part of his life story, reminiscent of other picaresque anti-heroes. While Gabriel’s story shares similarities with these characters, his path diverges, offering a unique perspective on the era.