Name: Life is a Dream
Rating: 3.8 (5 reviews)
ISBN: 9781625584441

Pedro Calderon de Barca

Life is a Dream is a philosophical allegory regarding the human situation and the mystery of life. Focusing on Segismundo, Prince of Poland, the central argument is the conflict between free will and fate. The play remains one of Calderûn's best-known and most studied works.

Life is a Dream

Gabi🌸🌷

Pedro Calderón de la Barca

One of Spain's outstanding dramas, this 17th-century allegory explores mysteries of destiny, illusory nature of existence, struggle between predestination and free will. Features magnificent poetry, rich in symbolism and metaphor. Excellent new translation.

Life Is a Dream

Анастасия Розова

*Read for class.

1.5/5

...... What the fuck was that ending?

Segismundo. Marry Rosaura.
Astolfo. But she's a commoner.
Clotaldo. She's not, she's my daughter.
Astolfo. Oh, okay, then.
Rosaura. Yay! He betrayed me and took my virginity, but hey! What a great husband!
Segismundo. Estrella, don't be sad, marry me instead of Astolfo, the man you love (who's also your cousin!).
Estrella. Oh, okay. Sure.
Segismundo. Where's the solder who helped me out of my prison? Lock him in my tower, he was a traitor to my dad's crown.

WHAT? And the people are so unrealistic and they change their minds so fast? WHAT?! I'm shocked. This was stupid. Say whatever you want, say Calderon was the greatest Spanish dramatist. This is stupid.
Also, Segismundo was such an asshole? An embodiment of a "nice guy" meme, honestly:

Segismundo. You're so beautiful, be mine.
Rosaura. No, can't, sorry.
Segismundo. I was nice to you and you're so rude?!?!?! DO YOU WANT ME TO BECOME RUDE AND TAKE YOU BY FORCE?..

WTF?!

The only thing I liked were the parts where Rosaura was standing up for herself. NOT FOR LONG, APPARENTLY.

Considered one of the outstanding Spanish dramas of all time, this 17th-century allegory explores the mysteries of human destiny, the illusory nature of existence, and the struggle between predestination and free will.

Life is a Dream

Reviews

Highlights