The Exemplary Lisarda of El esclavo del demonio

Allusions to classical figures drawn from history and mythology provide the reader-spectator of Mira de Amescua's El esclavo del demonio with a connecting thread of character development in the case of Lisarda to that of Don Gil. Both examples cited comment on the action even as they point to the eventual resolution of the main plot. At the same time, the gender differences evident in those who associate particular examples with Lisarda alternately constrain or liberate her characterization. As a result, Lisarda not only exemplifies a full range of female activities, but she also anticipates the actions and decisions of the male protagonist, Don Gil. (ETH)