| Summary |
"La Celestina" by Fernando de Rojas is a tragicomedy written during the late 15th century, often regarded as one of the first modern novels in Western literature. The narrative centers around the passionate but doomed love story of Calisto and Melibea, emphasizing themes of desire, manipulation, and the tragic effects of love. The book introduces key characters such as Celestina, a cunning old woman who acts as a go-between, and Calisto, the nobleman desperately in love with Melibea. The opening of "La Celestina" presents an introduction that sets the tone for the unfolding drama, conveying the author's reflections on the nature of love and the intertwining fates of the characters. It hints at a backdrop of social complexities and personal motivations that will affect Calisto and Melibea’s relationship. We learn that Calisto, enamored with Melibea, seeks Celestina's help to win her affections, despite the inherent dangers and societal repercussions of such pursuits. The start of the story encapsulates the mix of humor and tragedy that permeates the narrative, establishing a rich, layered exploration of love’s complications, especially through the lens of Celestina's manipulative prowess and the deep, obsessive longing exhibited by Calisto. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
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