House of Bernarda Alba: historical context

House of Bernarda Alba: historical context

Historical Context of ‘The House of Bernarda Alba’

Spanish Society in the Early 20th Century

  • Traditional values and customs were deeply entrenched in Spanish society, impacting every aspect of life, especially for women.
  • Patriarchy and machismo dominated, with a heavy emphasis on the virtue and chastity of women.
  • The upper class was characterised by luxury and leisure, often to the point of idleness, while the working classes lived and worked in poverty.

Spain’s Political Situation

  • ‘The House of Bernarda Alba’ is set in the period leading up to the Spanish Civil War (1936 - 1939).
  • The play reflects the political landscape at the time, with rich and poor tensions mirroring the tensions between Nationalists and Republicans in Spain.
  • Social and political unrest was widespread, leading to the formation of extremist groups and political instability.

Role of Women in Spain

  • Women were expected to maintain their purity until marriage and were largely restricted to the domestic sphere.
  • This period in Spain saw a move towards female emancipation and women’s rights, but progress was slow and often met with regressive backlash.
  • It was considered shameful for women to express or act upon sexual desire, hence the intense tension and rivalry developed among the sisters in the play.

Lorca and His Influences

  • Federico García Lorca, born in 1898, was a progressive voice in Spain, involved in theatre, poetry, and politics.
  • As a member of the Generation of ‘27, Lorca was one of several prominent artists who blended traditional and avant-garde styles, calling for political and social reform.
  • As an open homosexual and socialist, Lorca was executed by Nationalist forces at the start of the Civil War, marking him as a symbol of freedom and oppression.

Andalusian Culture

  • Lorca was deeply influenced by his passionate and traditional Andalusian culture, which is evident throughout the play.
  • The culture in Andalusia involves close-knit communities, honour, rampant gossip, and passionate displays of emotion.
  • Superstition and fatalistic acceptance of suffering are also distinctive aspects of Andalusian culture, reflecting in the character of Bernarda Alba and her daughters.

Remember, understanding this historical context can aid in a deeper understanding of the play and its themes, augmenting your analysis and discussions of ‘The House of Bernarda Alba’.