
A lively snapshot of 17th‑century Madrid, this comedy captures the bustling streets, taverns, and courtly parlors where fortunes are wagered and reputations tested. Lope’s sharp dialogue and quick‑changing scenes bring the city’s rhythm to life, offering listeners a vivid sense of daily Spanish life under Philip IV. The humor flows naturally, rooted in the customs and contradictions of the era.
The story centers on a spirited young woman, known for her quick wit and bright eyes, whose encounters with a colorful cast of suitors, servants, and meddling relatives set the stage for a cascade of misunderstandings. In the opening act, playful deceptions and flirtatious banter intertwine, hinting at deeper entanglements while keeping the tone light and entertaining.
Presented with thoughtful notes that smooth archaic language without losing its sparkle, the play remains accessible to modern ears. Its brisk pacing, memorable characters, and keen social observations make it an engaging listening experience for anyone curious about the golden age of Spanish theater.
Language
es
Duration
~3 hours (190K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by Juliet Sutherland, Chuck Greif and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net
Release date
2007-10-26
Rights
Public domain in the USA.
Subjects

1562–1635
One of the great voices of Spain’s Golden Age, this astonishingly prolific playwright helped reshape European theater with fast-moving plots, vivid characters, and a deep feel for everyday life. His work ranges from sparkling comedies to dramas of honor, love, and faith.
View all books
by Lope de Vega

by Lope de Vega

by Lope de Vega

by Lope de Vega

by Jacinto Benavente

by Juan Valera

by Antonio García Gutiérrez

by Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra