Summary |
"Misericordia" by Benito Pérez Galdós is a novel written in the late 19th century. The book delves into the lives of the impoverished residents of Madrid, focusing on themes of charity, social inequality, and human connection. The main characters introduced are an assortment of beggars and a prominent figure named Don Carlos, who regularly donates to the poor, and the story explores the complexities of their interactions and the struggles of those in destitution. The opening of "Misericordia" paints a vivid picture of the Church of San Sebastián, highlighting its dual façade facing the wealthy and the impoverished districts of Madrid. It introduces us to a group of beggars stationed at the church, illustrating their desperate attempts to survive the harsh weather and their rivalry for alms. Among them is Pulido, an elderly blind man, who endures the cold while waiting for donations. As a cold March morning unfolds, Don Carlos arrives to distribute coins among the poor, igniting a flurry of gossip among the beggars that reflect their intertwined lives and the social dynamics at play. The narrative sets the stage for a deeper exploration of charity, dignity, and the harsh realities of poverty. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
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