La locura de amor en la Lucrecia de Nicolás Fernández de Moratín

Abstract

Many authors have recreated the story of the rape of Lucretia, which led, in good measure, to the overthrow of the monarchy and the beginning of the republic in Rome. The subject has been approached throughout history from diverse points of view, according to the intention of the writer. Consequently,on the one hand, more private and emotional interpretations can be found, in which the love plot is emphasized. On the other hand, there are versions especially linked to the political point of view and, therefore, public, because they affect the whole of Roman citizenry. In the Spanish eighteenth century, the homonymous dramatic work created by Nicolás Fernández de Moratín in 1763 stands out. It focuses mainly on the first perspective indicated, based on the development of the literary topic known as furor amoris, hence the political criticism appears diluted with respect to other compositions that recreate this same event. In this version of the eighteenth century, there is a certain fidelity to the neoclassical ideal, which can be observed from respect for the dramatic rules. At the same time, a certain connection with the immediately previous Baroque dramatic works is glimpsed, since aspects such as the treatment of honor acquire special relevance. In the following pages, we will analyse how Moratín articulates the plot based on that aforementioned passionate love. Besides, we will comment how he introduces the political-ideological component in his verses.