Benito Pérez Galdós
Benito Pérez Galdós was a prolific Spanish novelist, playwright, and chronicler who is regarded as one of the greatest figures in Spanish literature. He was born on May 10, 1843, in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, and died on January 4, 1920, in Madrid. Galdós is best known for his realistic novels, particularly the 'Episodios Nacionales,' a series of historical novels that give a panoramic view of Spanish society in the 19th century. He also wrote a number of novels that explore the social realities of his time, including 'Fortunata y Jacinta' and 'Miau.' His work is characterized by complex characters, detailed settings, and a compassionate portrayal of the human condition. Galdós was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature on several occasions.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. Fortunata and Jacinta
"Fortunata and Jacinta" is a novel set in 19th century Spain, that explores the lives of two women - Fortunata, a poor but beautiful woman, and Jacinta, a wealthy and well-bred lady. Both women are in love with the same man, a wealthy and idle individual who leads a life of debauchery. The novel offers a rich and detailed portrayal of Madrid society during the period, and the stark contrast between the lives of the rich and the poor. It raises questions about marriage, social status, and the role of women in society.
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2. Compassion
"Compassion" is a compelling narrative that explores the themes of poverty, compassion, and human morality. Set in 19th-century Spain, it follows the story of a wealthy woman who, after an encounter with a poor, blind beggar, is moved to reassess her life and the societal norms of the time. This chance meeting prompts her to question the established social order and her privileged position within it, leading to a profound personal transformation. This novel is a poignant exploration of human empathy and the societal structures that often hinder its expression.
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3. Doña Perfecta
This novel is a vivid portrayal of the clash between progress and tradition, set in a fictional Spanish town. The story centers around a young engineer who arrives with ideas of modernization and progress, only to find himself in conflict with the conservative and deeply religious values upheld by his aunt, the titular character, and the town's society. This conflict escalates into a dramatic struggle that exposes the hypocrisy, intolerance, and moral rigidity of the town, ultimately leading to tragic consequences. Through this narrative, the novel critiques the resistance to change and the destructive nature of fanaticism, reflecting broader social tensions within Spain during the 19th century.
