La Celestina by Fernando de Rojas
- 1. La Celestina, a seminal work by Spanish author Fernando de Rojas, was first published in 1499 and is often regarded as one of the earliest examples of a novel in Western literature. The narrative centers around the tragic love story of Calisto and Melibea, whose passionate infatuation leads them into a web of manipulation and deceit facilitated by the cunning procuress, Celestina. This complex narrative explores themes of love, lust, and betrayal, while also providing a critical lens on societal norms and the human condition of the time. Rojas masterfully weaves together elements of drama and prose, creating an intricate dialogue that examines morality and the consequences of desire. The character of Celestina herself symbolizes the darker aspects of love and the lengths to which individuals will go to attain their desires. The work has garnered significant scholarly attention for its rich character development and its commentary on the socio-political landscape of late medieval Spain, making it a pivotal text in the transition from the medieval to the Renaissance literary tradition. Rojas’ unique blend of tragedy and comedy, along with its exploration of human motivations, underscores its enduring relevance and its status as a classic in the canon of Spanish literature.
What is the main theme of 'La Celestina'?
A) Love and manipulation
B) Religion and faith
C) War and politics
D) Friendship and loyalty
- 2. Who are the two main lovers in 'La Celestina'?
A) Tirso and Beatriz
B) Calisto and Melibea
C) Fernando and Lucía
D) Don Juan and Inés
- 3. What is the literary genre of 'La Celestina'?
A) Poetry
B) Epic
C) Comedy
D) Tragicomedy
- 4. What literary device is heavily used in 'La Celestina'?
A) Allegory
B) Symbolism
C) Dialogue
D) Metaphor
- 5. What does Melibea's relationship with her father symbolize?
A) Tradition and loyalty
B) Conflict between desires and parental control
C) Independence and freedom
D) Harmony and understanding
- 6. What motivates Calisto to seek Celestina's help?
A) His need for fame
B) His friendship with Sempronio
C) His love for Melibea
D) His desire for wealth
- 7. In what year was 'La Celestina' published?
A) 1600
B) 1499
C) 1488
D) 1505
- 8. Who ultimately becomes responsible for Celestina's downfall?
A) Melibea's rejection
B) Societal norms
C) Her own greed
D) Calisto's actions
- 9. What role does Sempronio play in the story?
A) Celestina's partner
B) Melibea's father
C) Calisto's servant
D) A rival suitor
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