What was the significance of the Spanish Inquisition?
It was a period of religious persecution aimed at maintaining Catholic orthodoxy and suppressing heresy, significantly impacting Spanish society.
Why is Lazarillo de Tormes considered a critique of Spanish society?
It exposes the hypocrisy and corruption within various social classes, including the clergy and nobility, through the eyes of a lower-class protagonist.
What role did 'conversos' and 'moriscos' play in 16th-century Spain?
They were religious minorities who faced discrimination and were often suspected of secretly practicing their original faiths after converting to Christianity.
What does the anonymity of the author suggest about the context in which the book was written?
The anonymity suggests that the author feared retribution for the book's critical and satirical content, given the power of the Inquisition.
How does the character of the blind man reflect the social realities of the time?
The blind man represents the harshness and lack of compassion in society, as he exploits Lázaro for his own survival.
What is the relevance of the 'honra' (honor) theme in the novel?
It highlights the obsession with outward appearances and social status, even when individuals are struggling with poverty and hunger.
Why was the book quickly prohibited in Spain?
Due to its criticism of the Church and the social order, which was seen as a threat to the established power structures.
What does Lazarillo's journey through different masters reveal about social mobility in 16th-century Spain?
It shows the limited opportunities for social advancement and the constant struggle for survival faced by those in the lower classes.
What does the episode with the Buldero (seller of indulgences) satirize?
It satirizes the corruption and manipulation within the Church, where religious authority is used to exploit people's faith for financial gain.
How does the ending of the novel, with Lázaro's acceptance of his situation, reflect the social constraints of the time?
It suggests that individuals were often forced to compromise their morals and accept their place in society to ensure their survival, even if it meant enduring injustice.
What is a 'pícaro'?
A roguish character, often of low social class, who uses wit and cunning to survive.
What does 'anonimato' mean?
Anonymity; the state of not being identified by name.
Define 'sátira'.
Satire; the use of humor, irony, exaggeration, or ridicule to expose and criticize people's stupidity or vices.
What is 'hipocresía'?
Hypocrisy; the practice of claiming to have moral standards or beliefs to which one's own behavior does not conform.
Define 'avaricia'.
Greed; excessive desire for wealth or possessions.
What does 'morisco' mean?
A Spanish Muslim who had converted to Christianity.
What is a 'converso'?
A Jew who converted to Christianity in Spain or Portugal, especially during the 14th and 15th centuries.
What is 'Inquisición'?
Inquisition; a period of intense religious persecution and investigation, particularly in Spain.
Define 'clero'.
Clergy; the body of all people ordained for religious duties.
What does 'arcipreste' mean?
Archpriest; a senior priest in charge of a group of parishes.
What was the significance of the Spanish Inquisition?
It aimed to maintain Catholic orthodoxy and suppress heresy, leading to persecution and social control.
Why was 'Lazarillo de Tormes' initially banned in Spain?
Due to its satirical and critical portrayal of Spanish society, including the Church and nobility.
What does the anonymity of the author suggest about the novel's content?
It suggests that the author feared retribution for the controversial and critical nature of the work.
What was the impact of Rey Fernando e Isabel on religious minorities?
They promoted Catholicism and persecuted Jews and Muslims, forcing conversions or expulsions.
What does the character of the blind man represent in the novel?
He represents the harsh realities of survival and the deceptive nature of appearances.
What does the clergyman's behavior reveal about the Church?
It reveals the corruption and avarice present within the clergy during that time period.
What does the squire's character represent?
He represents the false pride and economic struggles of the lower nobility.
What is the significance of Lázaro's birth by the river Tormes?
It symbolizes his humble origins and connection to the common people of Spain.
What does Lázaro's final position as a town crier symbolize?
It symbolizes his integration into a corrupt society and his compromise of moral values for survival.
How does the novel reflect the social divisions of 16th-century Spain?
It depicts the vast differences between the wealthy and the poor, and the exploitation of the lower classes.
