Torquemada en la hoguera

"Torquemada en la hoguera" by Benito Pérez Galdós is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Don Francisco Torquemada, a usurer characterized by his mercilessness toward debtors and the struggles faced by the impoverished during this era. As Torquemada navigates the complexities of his own life, particularly after the death of his wife, he becomes a symbol of the harsh financial realities and moral dilemmas faced by those in his social sphere. The opening of the novel introduces Torquemada's character and paints a vivid picture of his life as a callous moneylender who profits from the misfortunes of others. We learn about his business dealings and routine interactions with his tenants, emphasizing the pervasive anxiety surrounding debt and poverty. As we delve deeper, the narrative begins to shift with the introduction of his two children, Rufina and Valentín, showcasing a tender, human side to Torquemada amid his ruthless exterior. The onset of a crisis in his family, particularly related to the health of Valentín, serves as a catalyst for Torquemada's emotional and moral reckoning, setting the stage for a compelling exploration of redemption, the nature of humanity, and the consequences of one's actions. (This is an automatically generated summary.)