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The Bonds of Interest: Analysis of Major Characters

"The Bonds of Interest: Analysis of Major Characters" explores the intricate relationships and motivations of key figures in a narrative centered on themes of love, deception, and social status. The primary character, Leander, is a charming rogue who masquerades as a wealthy nobleman while grappling with his genuine feelings for Silvia, a rich young woman who believes their bond is rooted in love. Supporting Leander is Crispin, his crafty accomplice who cleverly manipulates the interests of various creditors to facilitate a marriage that serves both personal and financial goals.

Silvia's father, Signor Polichinelle, is a miser who reluctantly consents to the marriage, while her mother, Signora Polichinelle, disdains her husband’s mercantile background. The narrative also introduces Doña Sirena, an aristocratic widow seeking financial gain through the marriage arrangement, alongside her maid, Columbine, who becomes entwined in the plot through her connection with Crispin. Additional characters, such as the gullible innkeeper and Harlequin, an impoverished poet in love with Columbine, add layers of complexity to the story, highlighting themes of ambition and the fluidity of social roles. Overall, the analysis delves into how personal interests and societal expectations intertwine, creating a rich tapestry of human interaction and ambition.

Published in: 2021
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The Bonds of Interest: Analysis of Major Characters

Author: Jacinto Benavente y Martínez

First published: 1908

Genre: Play

Locale: Italy

Plot: Comedy

Time: Early seventeenth century

Leander (lee-ahn-DEHR), a rogue with gentlemanly qualities who impersonates a rich, mysterious nobleman. Although he is in love with Silvia, he does not want to marry her under false pretenses.

Crispin (krees-PEEN), Leander's accomplice, who pretends to be his servant. He arranges Leander's marriage by playing the self-interest of one creditor against another.

Silvia Polichinelle (poh-lee-chee-NEHL-yeh), a rich young woman who convinces Leander that they are united by the greatest bond of interest, love.

Signor Polichinelle, Silvia's miserly father, who is forced to agree to the marriage and dowry.

Signora Polichinelle, Silvia's mother, who despises her husband as a vulgar tradesman.

Doña Sirena (see-REH-nah), an aristocratic but penniless widow who foresees making money for arranging Silvia's marriage.

Columbine (koh-lewm-BEE-neh), the maid and confidante of Doña Sirena. She is won over by Crispin.

An innkeeper, who is deceived by Crispin's rudeness into thinking that Leander is an important noble.

Harlequin, an impoverished poet in love with Columbine and befriended by Crispin in the name of Leander.

A captain, a down-at-the-heels rogue, also befriended by Crispin.