Doña Perfecta

Doña Perfecta, the classic of Spanish literature, is presented here in its original language. First published in 1876, the novel is a strong representation of the realist genre which came to prominence during the late 19th century. The entire plot takes place in Spain, where Don José Rey - commonly known as Pepe - journeys to a Catholic cathedral in the city of Orbajosa. It is his intention to wed his cousin Rosario; at first, we understand that the marriage is merely one of convenience, orchestrated by Pepe's father and aunt. However the plot thickens when Pepe truly falls for Rosario, and the Cathedral Canon, Don Inocencio, begins to meddle in the union... Valuable for providing a context of everyday life in nineteenth century Spain, we witness a society where the Catholic church continues to wield great power and influence in everyday affairs. This, in a country where conjugal traditions and religious observance held great importance and sway over the everyday lives of many. The emergence of a more socially liberal, urban outlook in the city of Madrid is also charted as contrasting the conservative rural areas; trends which continue to offer relevance in the modern day.