Benito Pérez Galdós 
Saragossa 
A Story of Spanish Valor

Benito Pérez Galdós’s ‘Saragossa’ is a rich and intricate novel that delves into the political and social complexities of 19th century Spain. Set against the backdrop of the Carlist Wars, Galdós masterfully weaves a narrative that intertwines love, politics, and tragedy. The novel is characterized by its vivid and detailed descriptions of the Spanish landscape, as well as its realistic portrayal of the struggles faced by the working class. Galdós’s writing style is both engaging and thought-provoking, inviting the reader to reflect on the themes of power, identity, and morality. ‘Saragossa’ stands as a classic example of Spanish Realism, showcasing Galdós’s keen insight into the human condition and his ability to craft compelling narratives that resonate with readers across generations. Benito Pérez Galdós, often referred to as the Spanish Dickens, was a prolific writer known for his deep empathy and social awareness. His firsthand experiences living in 19th century Spain informed much of his work, including ‘Saragossa’. Galdós’s unique perspective as a keen observer of Spanish society allows him to offer a nuanced and authentic portrayal of the historical events depicted in the novel. I highly recommend ‘Saragossa’ to readers who appreciate immersive historical fiction and insightful social commentary. Galdós’s masterful storytelling and profound understanding of human nature make this novel a must-read for anyone interested in Spanish literature and history.

Mengenai Pengarang

Benito Pérez Galdós (1843–1920) stands as a towering figure in the pantheon of Spanish literature. Born in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, he moved to Madrid where he would eventually emerge as one of the most prominent novelists of the 19th century, renowned for his realistic characterisation and deep social commentary. Galdós’s literary output was prodigious, best exemplified by his two grand series: ‘Episodios Nacionales, ‘ a sequence of historical novels depicting Spanish history from the 19th century, and the ‘Novelas españolas contemporáneas, ‘ offering incisive critiques of the societal issues of his time. His style, rooted in the tradition of Realism and tinged with Naturalist elements, aimed to be the Spanish equivalent to Balzac’s comprehensive human panorama. ‘Saragossa, ‘ one of his works, epitomises his narrative skill, as it weaves a captivating tale against the backdrop of the Spanish War of Independence. This portrayal is reflective of his gift for intertwining the personal with the historical, creating a tapestry rich in detail and empathy for the human condition. Galdós was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature on several occasions, an acknowledgment of his stature and his wide-ranging influence on not only Spanish literature but on the broader European literary landscape of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.