Introduction to The Youthful Deeds of Rodrigo (Las mocedades de Rodrigo)
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Date
2021
Authors
Bailey, Matthew
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Oregon Libraries
Abstract
The Mocedades de Rodrigo is an epic poem in Castilian that narrates the fictional deeds of Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar, the young Cid. The prose narrative of his youth first appears in 1295. The unique version in verse is preserved in a much later manuscript (ca. 1400). The poem includes the early history of the families of the poem’s two main protagonists, Rodrigo and the king of Castile, Fernando I, before focusing more exclusively on their relationship. These protagonists and their ancestors are linked by their struggles to preserve their individual independence as well as that of their clan, nation, and ultimately all the kingdoms of Spain. Rodrigo first emerges as a fierce yet reluctant vassal of the king, but by the poem’s final episode he has earned the king’s respect and become his most trusted counselor and valuable warrior.
This is a pedagogical edition of a selection of the Mocedades de Rodrigo (ca. 1300) with a short general introduction, notes, and brief bibliography. The edition and translation are by Matthew Bailey (2020). The Spanish introduction and notes were translated by Sol Miguel-Prendes.
Description
6 pages, English and Spanish translation available
Keywords
Cid, Epopeya, mocedades de rodrigo, Rodrígo Díaz de Vivar, Medieval Iberian literature, Medieval Spanish Literature, Middle Ages, Epic Poetry