38 pages • 1 hour read
AnonymousLazarillo De Tormes
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1554A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Lazarillo de Tormes follows Lázaro, a young boy of low social standing, who narrates his life through episodic adventures, serving various masters to survive. Criticizing the Catholic Church and the aristocracy, the novel uses satire to expose social injustices. Lázaro navigates through challenging circumstances, seeking food and shelter, ultimately becoming a town crier and marrying a maid linked to the archbishop. The book includes discrimination based on race, class, and disability, as well as themes of violence and exploitation.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Lazarillo De Tormes offers a compelling glimpse into 16th-century Spanish society, praised for its raw, satirical portrayal of poverty and clever narrative style. Critics admire its influence on the picaresque genre, though some find its episodic structure disjointed. The anonymous authorship adds an intriguing layer, enhancing its mystique and historical value.
Who Should Read Lazarillo De Tormes?
Readers who enjoy picaresque novels with biting social commentary will appreciate Lazarillo De Tormes by Anonymous. Comparable to Don Quixote, it appeals to those who relish satirical tales of survival and cleverness. Fans of Moll Flanders may also enjoy its exploration of the darker aspects of society.