Article Analysis by Geoffrey Ribbans - Essay Example

Spanish Literature 16 March Analysis of Lying in the Structure of La Verdad Sospechosa by Geoffrey Ribbans Introduction Healy defines lying as, “lying is the falsification entirely disproportionate to any discernable end in view, engaged in by a person, who at the time of observation, cannot definitely be declare insane, feebleminded or epileptic” (5). In other words a lie is a false statement or the deed of hiding a truth. The author has incorporated a very common aspect of human nature i.e. lying in this play to depict the fact that the habit of lying is like a parasite because once acquired it becomes very difficult to let go and ultimately it results in creating chaos and more problems rather than solving them. 2. Article Summary Ribbans in his article explore one of the major thematic concerns of the play La Verdad Sospechosa i.e. lying.

In this article the writer throws light on the pros and cons of lying as well as he also illustrates various human behaviors to the common habit of lying. Moreover the play as well as the article supports the cliche that a lie is never a solution for a problem because one lie always leads to another and consequently leads to a series of lies in order to hide one truth. Ribbans has used various textual excerpts from the play to support his understanding and interpretation of each lie that is spoken in the play and he points out that each act of the play introduces a new lie that gives a new dimension to the plot of the play consequently the play comprises of four major lies followed by other meager lies. 2.1.

Analysis Ribbans in this article reiterates the purpose of the Alarcon’s use of the theme of lie. He states that the writer makes use of his writing technique to mock the double standards and hypocrisy of the society and the nobility. This duality is reiterated through the character of Don Beltran and his double standards because he considers it acceptable to marry is son before the truth about his habit is revealed as Ribbans also states in the text, “it is perfectly proper with Don Beltran’s concept of veracity so different form his son’s to conceal the truth in order to bring off a good match” (196).

Yet at the same time he condemns Don Garcia’s habit of lying as it is not acceptable in the aristocratic circles. Another interesting interpretation presented by Ribbans is that appearances of the people are also indirectly an aspect of lying because it also involves deception. Moreover this further highlights the author’s perception of the society’s hypocritical behavior. Ribbans also asserts that lying is a habit that is nearly impossible to let go as is apparent from Don Garcia’s character as he states in the text, “…Garcia’s weakness is deep-rooted…” (211).

Alarcon makes use of humor to diffuse the seriousness of the moral issue that he had chosen to write. The blend of humor, satire and irony present the readers with a highly entertaining play that also teaches them a moral lesson. 3. Conclusion Hence Ribbans exploration of the structure of lying in Alarcon’s play explains the writer’s intention of incorporating the theme of lying in the play i.e. is to make the readers understand that even if a lie appears to be an easy way out of situation it is only a temporary escape because one lie leads an individual in to the pits of lying and deception.

Hence it is better to state a truth and bear the consequences rather than losing one’s honor and dignity by being proved to be a liar. Reference: The Echo Library. Echo Library 131 High ST. Teddington Middlesex, 2007. Web. 16 March 2011. Wilson, Meryon, Edward, and Jones, Oscar, Royston. Studies in Spanish literature of the golden age: presented to Edward M. Wilson. London: Tamesis Books Limited, 1973. Print