Author
Pedro Antonio de Alarcón
1833-1891
Pedro Antonio de Alarcón (1833-1891) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by Pedro Antonio de Alarcón
Novelas Cortas
"Novelas Cortas" by Pedro Antonio de Alarcón is a collection of short stories written in the mid-19th century. This work is designed for students of Spanish, showcasing narratives that illuminate aspects of Spanish life and history through engaging tales. The stories are notable for their accessible style and humor, and they feature an array of characters that reflect the social dynamics of their time. The opening of "Novelas Cortas" introduces the first story, "La Buenaventura," where a ragged and humorous gypsy named Heredia arrives at the headquarters of the Captain General of Granada. Heredia claims to possess information regarding a notorious criminal, Parrón, for whom a reward had been announced. As he relates his encounter with Parrón, a mix of dark humor and tension unfolds, showcasing a bandit known for his ruthlessness. The story sets the tone for a blend of adventure and social commentary, with a focus on Heredia's wit as he navigates through dangerous circumstances while trying to claim his reward.
El Capitán Veneno The Hispanic Series
"El Capitán Veneno" by Pedro Antonio de Alarcón is a novel published in 1881. Set in Madrid during the turbulent year of 1848, the story follows the irascible Captain Jorge de Córdoba, wounded in street clashes and reluctantly taken in by two women: Doña Teresa and her daughter Angustias. The misogynistic captain must confront his fierce independence as he recovers under their care. When unexpected tragedy strikes and duty demands a decision, the Captain Veneno faces a choice that will determine all their futures.
El sombrero de tres picos Historia verdadera de un sucedido que anda en romances escrita ahora tal y como pasó
"El sombrero de tres picos" by Pedro Antonio de Alarcón is a novel published in 1874. Set in early 1800s Granada, it tells the story of the miller Lucas and his beautiful wife Frasquita, whose happy marriage faces a test when a corrupt magistrate schemes to seduce her. After the magistrate's nighttime intrusion leads to a series of misunderstandings, Lucas believes himself betrayed and plots revenge by impersonating his rival. What follows is a tale of mistaken identities, suspicion, and honor that inspired Manuel de Falla's famous 1919 ballet.
Viajes por España
"Viajes por España" by Pedro Antonio de Alarcón is a travelogue written in the late 19th century. This work captures the author's explorations and experiences throughout various regions of Spain, including notable visits to historical monasteries and cities like Yuste and Salamanca. The narrative is likely enriched by Alarcón's reflections, insights, and personal anecdotes, providing readers with both geographical and cultural perspectives of Spain during his time. The opening of the text introduces the author’s dedication to a friend and hints at a series of journeys taken across Spain. The first journey described is a vivid account of visiting the Monastery of Yuste, starting from one’s preparations, the suggested routes, and the scenic views encountered along the way. Alarcón instills a romantic and historical context into his travels, sharing personal reflections on the landscapes and the significance of the locations he visits, notably alluding to the legacy of Emperor Charles V, who spent his last days in the monastery. The tone is descriptive and reflective, aiming to entice readers with the beauty and history of Spanish locales.
Cosas que fueron: Cuadros de costumbres
"Cosas que fueron: Cuadros de costumbres" by Pedro Antonio de Alarcón is a collection of essays written in the late 19th century. The book captures various social customs and reflections on life in Spain during that era, providing a window into the cultural landscape of the time. Through vivid language and rich observations, Alarcón discusses themes of nostalgia, family life, and societal changes, weaving his personal experiences into the fabric of his reflections. The opening of the work introduces us to the author's reflections on the passage of time and the inevitable changes that accompany it. Alarcón recalls the warmth and joy of Christmas Eve in his childhood home, a stark contrast to his current solitary existence in Madrid. The nostalgic tone reveals his deep longing for the familial bonds and traditions he once cherished, as he grapples with the realization of mortality and loss. The author vividly paints scenes from his past, drawing readers into his emotional landscape, illustrating the tension between past happiness and present disillusionment.
El clavo
"El clavo" by Pedro Antonio de Alarcón is a detective story published in 1853. Considered the first precedent of the detective genre in Spain, it follows a judge who investigates a mysterious skull pierced with a nail found in a cemetery. As he unravels the murder case, his personal life becomes entangled with the investigation when the prime suspect turns out to be someone he knows intimately. Based on a real case that circulated in nineteenth-century Spanish newspapers, this short novel blends romance with criminal mystery.
El Niño de la Bola: Novela
"El Niño de la Bola: Novela" by Pedro Antonio de Alarcón is a romantic novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers on Manuel Venegas, also known as the "Niño de la Bola," who faces great personal tragedy and societal challenges as he returns to his hometown after many years. As Manuel grows, he grapples with themes of love, vengeance, and identity against a richly detailed backdrop of Spanish society. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to a dramatic and scenic setting in the Spanish Sierra, where the story unfolds around the return of young Manuel after a long absence. In the opening chapters, the landscape is described vividly, with references to current societal tensions, history, and memorable locals. The narrative quickly immerses readers in Manuel's life, detailing his father's sacrifices and tragic death due to the machinations of a usurious creditor named D. Elías, which leaves Manuel orphaned. As he endures the painful transition from childhood to the harsh realities of life, Manuel also falls in love with Soledad, the daughter of his family's oppressor. This complex love story, intertwined with themes of bravery, loss, and resentment, sets the stage for a compelling exploration of Manuel's future and the conflicts that arise within his heart and community.
The Strange Friend of Tito Gil
"The Strange Friend of Tito Gil" by Pedro Antonio de Alarcón is a novel written in the late 19th century. The book tells the story of Tito Gil, a poor shoemaker’s son who, after a series of misfortunes and transformations, becomes entangled with the enigmatic figure of Death, who claims to be his friend and offers him extraordinary powers. The novel explores themes of love, hardship, and the twists of fate that lead Tito on a quest to reconnect with his childhood love, Elena. At the start of the story, we meet Tito Gil, who has transitioned from being a page in a noble household to a destitute shoemaker after the death of his benefactor, Count Rionuevo. Struggling with heartbreak and poverty, Tito’s life takes a dark turn when he encounters a mysterious figure who reveals himself to be Death, stating that he is bound to Tito by the remorse for the misfortunes he has caused. As Tito grapples with despair, he is offered the chance to become a physician and win back Elena, but must navigate the complexities of fate, love, and the deeper implications of his newfound abilities, leading to a series of encounters that will ultimately challenge his understanding of life and death.
Der Dreispitz
"Der Dreispitz" by Pedro Antonio de Alarcón is a novella published in 1874. Set in an Andalusian town around 1805, it tells the story of a miller and his beautiful wife Frasquita, whose peaceful life is disrupted when a powerful magistrate, the Corregidor, becomes infatuated with her. When the Corregidor schemes to separate the couple, a night of misunderstandings and mistaken identities unfolds, leading to jealousy, attempted revenge, and comedic chaos that threatens two marriages.