Characters in a Post-War Drama: Analysis & Symbolism

Character Analysis of a Post-War Drama

Mario

Mario initially appears as the defeated and innocent victim of the war. However, it is important not to oversimplify his character. Mario exemplifies the contemplative individual whose defeatist and skeptical nature leads him to abstain from participating in the struggle. He chooses to remain marginalized, voluntarily bribed by ethical imperatives (113, analysis of the functioning of society, and reply to Mario). Vicente likens his idealism to that of Don Quixote, but unlike the literary figure, Mario did act. Nevertheless, he recognizes his mistake in the end, acknowledging his inaction and selfishness. He represents a breath of hope in his quest for transcendence, a trait inherited from his father.

Vicente

Vicente, in principle, appears as an unscrupulous individual. He is responsible for Elvira's death and, from that point on, commits all the assaults necessary for his personal triumph. For him, getting on the train means not getting off, no matter the cost. Here, the issue of liability is more pronounced, as he is fully aware of his actions. However, he is not entirely negative; he possesses a strong sense of guilt that ultimately pushes him toward tragedy and the search for a fatherly forgiveness that is impossible to attain. To understand him, we must delve deeper into his psychology, recognizing that he is both victim and executioner. In essence, he is a coward, submissive to power to preserve his position, convinced that the system's logic will not let him escape unless it is to sink.

Encarna

Despite her limited role, Encarna demonstrates the degradation of romance at the time. Love is viewed through a utilitarian lens. She is a victim, like Elvira, in relation to the two brothers, used for various purposes: self-serving altruism by Vicente and self-pity by Mario. Consequently, she finds herself in a display of thoughts, akin to a prostitute: poverty and the need for survival morally push her into prostitution.

The Mother

The Mother plays a minor role, yet several aspects of her character stand out: her devotion, kindness, and compassion for Vicente (she is, after all, his mother and forgives him). Her continued obsession with hunger and, above all, her escapist attitude toward the events are also notable. She has not ceased to acknowledge the tragedy, but she imposes silence upon herself, attempting to avoid a fracture that ends up being inevitable.

Beltrán

Beltrán does not appear on stage, but references to him suggest he represents the gifted writer who becomes a victim of outside interests. He must cope with a power whose methods are more effective than simple values.

Elvira

Elvira is the most innocent character, a symbol of innocence succumbing to history and the actions of others. Her impact on others motivates meditation on man's responsibility.