The Star of Seville: Analysis of Major Characters
"The Star of Seville: Analysis of Major Characters" delves into the intricate relationships and moral dilemmas faced by the main characters in the narrative. Central to the story is Sancho IV, also known as Sancho the Brave, the king of Castile, who falls in love with Estrella Tabera, despite her betrothal to Don Sancho Ortiz. The unfolding drama reveals themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the consequences of ambition, as Sancho, in disguise, orchestrates a tragic event that leads to the death of Estrella’s brother, Don Bustos.
Estrella, known as the Star of Seville, faces a profound internal conflict as she grapples with her fiancé's crime against her family. Don Sancho Ortiz remains steadfastly loyal to the king, even as he becomes embroiled in the tragic events that unfold. Other significant characters include Don Arias, the king's confidant, and the alcaldes of Seville, who add layers to the political and social dynamics of the story. The maid Matilde's fate serves as a poignant reminder of the collateral damage caused by the characters' choices. Overall, the analysis offers insights into the characters' motivations and the moral complexities that drive the narrative forward.
The Star of Seville: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Unknown
Genre: Play
Locale: Seville
Plot: Tragedy
Time: Thirteenth century
Sancho IV (SAHN-choh), called Sancho the Brave, the king of Castile. He falls in love with Estrella Tabera, the betrothed of Don Sancho Ortiz. The king, in disguise, bribes his way into her home but is recognized by her brother, who refuses to acknowledge him as the king, claiming that no ruler would stoop to dishonor. Unable to act in his own person, the king promises Don Sancho any bride he may choose in return for killing an enemy. Don Sancho, finding that he must kill his fiancée's brother, is faithful to his oath of loyalty and kills Don Bustos. Imprisoned, he loyally remains silent, and King Sancho must order his execution. At the plea of Estrella, he gives her the power to decide the fate of Don Sancho. When she frees him, the king is forced to confess his own guilt.
Estrella Tabera (ehs-TREH-yah tah-BEH-rah), the Star of Seville. When her fiancé, Don Sancho, kills her brother at the king's command, she saves Don Sancho's life but refuses to marry him because of the murder.
Don Bustos Tabera (BEWS-tohs), Estrella's brother, who insults the disguised king and is killed in a duel by his sister's fiancé.
Don Sancho Ortiz (ohr-TEES), Estrella's betrothed. At the king's command, he kills her brother and, unswervingly loyal, refuses to reveal the truth. He is saved from execution by Estrella, but they never marry.
Don Arias (AH-ree-ahs), the king's confidant.
Don Pedro de Guzmán (PEH-droh deh guhs-MAHN) and Don Farfán de Riviera (fahr-FAHN deh rree-va-rah), alcaldes of Seville.
Matilde (mah-TEEL-deh), a maid who admits the disguised king to Estrella's house. She is hanged by Don Bustos.
Clarindo (klahr-EEN-doh), Don Sancho's servant.