IB Junior English Journal Response 31 (Lorca Journal 6)

1) Find nine quotations, three from each act, that suggest a cultural connection.

2) Discuss your thoughts on each in one to two sentences.

Lorca Journal 6 (Quotes and Cultural Connections)

-Act I-

Bridegroom: “Three years.  I was finally able to buy the vineyard.” (9).

-This quote could connect to the characters family class and reveals how middle class families managed their financial assets.

Mother-In-Law: “The water deep and black.” (17)

-This has a connection to the depth of character in a person (the deepest desires or Id which relates to Freud).  This can also have a connection to how fortune is unknown.

Mother-In-Law: “The blood was flowing / Stronger than water.” (26).

-This could relate to the immensity of the Spanish Civil War and how conflict brought many casualties.  It also relates to the phrase "blood is thicker than water" which means that family is more important than others.

-Act II-

Maid: “set the orange blossoms…so they form a crown on your hair.” (41).

-Greek influence can be seen here because of their ceremonial attire.

Father: “flower of the mountain! / Like the wife of a captain!” (51).

-This shows the predominant role of men in Spanish society.  They were viewed as the decision makers in the family.

Father: “And these hands…will punish and will dominate and will sow the seeds.  Many sons are needed.” (61).

-This can relate to how a significant portion of the Spanish population were farmers under wealthy landowners.

-Act III-

Second Woodcutter: “Leave a green branch for love.” (88).

-The “green branch” can refer to peace and purity of religion in this era.  This character can also be part of the chorus of the play.

Little Girl: “The thread runs and runs.” (96).

-This relates well with the three fates in Greek mythology.  They were responsible for measuring the life span of a mortal.  Similar beliefs could have been practiced in Spain.

Mother-In-Law: “Place a cross of ashes…” (97).

-This shows the strong attachment of the Spanish people to their Christian faith.  The symbol of the cross was used even without ceremony or semi-formality.