La Montserrat : $b Novela de costums del nostre temps

by Dolores Monserdá de Maciá

"La Montserrat: Novela de costums del nostre temps" by Dolores Monserdá de Maciá is a novel of Catalan customs written in the late 19th century. The narrative introduces the Bach family, focusing on the ambitious patriarch, Don Joaquím Bach, who has worked his way up from humble beginnings to become a successful businessman. The novel likely explores themes of social status, family dynamics, and the struggles for upward mobility amidst the changing societal norms of the period. The opening of the novel sets the stage for the Bach family's life in Barcelona and the village of Larrua, revealing their aspirations and the societal expectations placed upon them. It begins with a thorough background of Don Joaquím, detailing his rise from an apprentice in a butter shop to a well-off shop owner, and later, a wealthy social figure. As he plans for the marriages of his children, particularly his daughters Teresina and Adela, the narrative hints at the conflicts and dynamics within the family, especially between traditional values and new wealth. The social milieu is depicted through lively dialogues and interactions, showcasing the societal intricacies that will shape the family’s future decisions and marital prospects.