Slide 1: Introduction to 'La Casa de Bernarda Alba'
- Overview of the play's significance in Spanish literature.
- Brief introduction of Federico García Lorca.
- Context of its publishing in 1936, just before the Spanish Civil War.
Slide 2: Synopsis of the Play
- Set in a rural Spanish village, focusing on the life of Bernarda Alba and her five daughters.
- Explores themes of oppression and desire for freedom.
- The story unfolds after the death of Bernarda's husband, highlighting authoritarian family dynamics.
Slide 3: Main Characters
- Bernarda Alba: A controlling and tyrannical matriarch.
- Angustias: Bernarda’s eldest daughter, engaged to Pepe el Romano.
- Magdalena: The second daughter, deeply resentful of her mother.
- Amelia: The third daughter, passive and compliant.
- Martirio: The fourth daughter, jealous and bitter.
- Adela: The youngest daughter, symbol of rebellion and desire.
Slide 4: Characterization of Bernarda Alba
- Represents patriarchal authority, symbolizes repression.
- Her strict rules and social norms lead to tragic consequences.
- Discussion of her moral rigidity and lack of empathy.
Slide 5: Characterization of the Daughters
- Adela: The rebel challenging societal conventions.
- Martirio: Embodies internalized oppression and envy.
- Magdalena and Amelia: Provide insight into resigned acceptance of their fates.
Slide 6: Thematic Elements: Oppression
- Analysis of how Bernarda’s authoritarianism reflects broader societal norms.
- The confinement of women within strict gender roles.
- Discussion of societal expectations and their consequences.
Slide 7: Thematic Elements: Freedom and Rebellion
- Adela’s symbol of youthful defiance against oppressive structures.
- Exploration of desires for love and personal autonomy.
- The tragic outcome of suppressed longings.
Slide 8: Thematic Elements: Death and Mourning
- The pervasive influence of death throughout the play.
- Bernarda’s obsession with maintaining appearances and decorum.
- How mourning rules reflect societal pressures on women.
Slide 9: Historical Context
- The political and social climate of Spain in the 1930s.
- The impact of the Spanish Civil War on Lorca's work.
- Discussion of gender roles during this tumultuous period.
Slide 10: Symbolism in the Play
- The House: Represents both a physical and emotional prison.
- Colors: The use of black and white to symbolize grief and societal constraints.
- Pepe el Romano: A symbol of male desire and the object of the daughters’ ambitions.
Slide 11: Language and Style
- Use of poetic language and symbolism.
- Lorca's incorporation of Andalusian dialect to enhance authenticity.
- Discussion of dramatic elements, such as stage directions and character interactions.
Slide 12: Reception and Influence
- Initial reception and controversy surrounding the play.
- Its role in defining modern Spanish theatre.
- Influence on later works and adaptations in various media.
Slide 13: Adaptations and Legacy
- Overview of notable adaptations in theatre, film, and literature.
- The enduring relevance of the play’s themes in contemporary discussions of gender and societal structure.
Slide 14: Discussion Questions
- How does Lorca depict the struggle for individual freedom within oppressive settings?
- In what ways are the characters’ experiences reflective of broader social issues?
- How might the themes of the play resonate with contemporary audiences?
Slide 15: Conclusion
- Summary of key insights on characterisation, themes, and historical context.
- Final reflections on the importance of 'La Casa de Bernarda Alba' in the literary canon.
- Encouragement for further exploration of Lorca’s works.
{The image of a dramatic theatre stage set, featuring a rustic Spanish house with a balcony, symbolizing confinement and societal pressure.}