Peñas arriba: Analysis of Major Characters
"Peñas Arriba: Analysis of Major Characters" delves into the intricacies of relationships and personal growth within a rural Pyrenean setting. The narrative centers on Marcelo, a young man from Madrid, who is enticed by his elderly uncle, Celso Ruiz de Bejos, to leave his urban life and experience the simplicity of village living. Throughout his time there, Marcelo transforms as he encounters the kindness of the local community, including the village priest, Sabas Peñas, and the supportive Doctor Neluco, who encourages him to marry Lita, the granddaughter of a mountaineer. The story highlights the contrast between Marcelo's sophisticated background and the rich, communal values of the villagers, ultimately leading him to embrace a new identity and life path. As he becomes increasingly integrated into this tight-knit community, the courage and camaraderie of the mountaineers inspire a profound love for the landscape and its people. The characters, including Celso, Lita, and others, play crucial roles in shaping Marcelo's journey, illustrating themes of belonging, heritage, and personal evolution. This exploration offers insights into how relationships and environment can profoundly influence one's sense of self and purpose.
Peñas arriba: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: José María de Pereda
First published: 1895
Genre: Novel
Locale: Santander, Spain
Plot: Regional
Time: Late nineteenth century
Marcelo (mahr-SEH-loh), a young man from Madrid. Bidden by his lonely, eighty-year-old uncle, Celso Ruiz de Bejos, to come and live with him, the sophisticated Marcelo sets out for the heart of the Pyrenees on a visit to his patriarchal relative. At first, the simple pleasures of the village have little appeal for the urbane young man, but as time passes, the kindness and courage of the mountaineers and the grandeur of the surrounding peaks expand and lift his heart and mind. He finally marries Lita and becomes so much a part of the village life that he dreads leaving home even for short trips.
Celso Ruiz de Bejos (SEHL-soh rrew-EES deh BEH-hohs), Marcelo's eighty-year-old uncle, who is the patriarch of his region in the Pyrenees. He urges his nephew to leave Madrid and join him in his mountain home, where he makes him his heir.
Doctor Neluco (neh-LEW-koh), the friend and confidant of Marcelo in the mountain village. He advises the young man to marry Lita.
Sabas Peñas (SAH-bahs PEHN-yahs), the village priest.
Pedro Nolasco (PEH-droh noh-LAHS-koh) and Pito Salces (PEE-toh SAHL-sehs), mountaineers whose courage and kindness inspire Marcelo with a love for the mountain village.
Margarita (mahr-gahr-EE-tah), called Lita (LEE-tah), Pedro Nolasco's granddaughter, who marries Marcelo.
Mari Pepa (MAH-ree PEH-pah), Pedro Nolasco's daughter.
Chisco (CHEES-koh), Celso Ruiz de Bejos'faithful servant.
Facia (FAH-see-ah), a mountain woman who seeks Marcelo's advice concerning her criminal husband, who is blackmailing her.
Tona (TOH-nah), Facia's daughter.