The Life of Lazarillo de Tormes · Chapter
The Family of Mendoza explained
This chapter provides a detailed genealogical account of the Mendoza family, one of the noblest houses in Spain, tracing its lineage from the 12th century through the 15th century.
What happens
This chapter provides a detailed genealogical account of the Mendoza family, one of the noblest houses in Spain, tracing its lineage from the 12th century through the 15th century. It highlights key figures such as Don Diego Lopez, the Marquis of Santillana, and the Counts of Tendilla, and notes their military, political, and literary achievements. The chapter also mentions the family's connections to the Spanish monarchy and its role in significant historical events, setting the stage for the author of Lazarillo de Tormes.
Themes in this chapter
Honor and Appearance
The chapter emphasizes the Mendoza family's noble lineage and their acts of chivalry, such as Diego Hurtado de Mendoza giving his horse to King Juan I at the Battle of Aljubarrota, reflecting the importance of honor and reputation.
Social Class and Mobility
The detailed genealogy illustrates the privileges and status of the high nobility, contrasting with the lower-class protagonists of Lazarillo de Tormes, and highlighting the rigid class structure of Spain.
Characters to notice
- Diego Hurtado de Mendoza
Mentioned as a descendant of the Mendoza family and the subject of the chapter's genealogical focus.
- Íñigo López de Mendoza
Marquis of Santillana, a poet and military leader, created Marquis in 1445, and a key ancestor in the Mendoza lineage.
- Juan de Mendoza
Married Maria de Haro, and is part of the Mendoza family tree.
- Doña Eleanor Hurtado
Married Don Diego Lopez, Lord of Mendoza, and was heiress of Mendibil.
- Maria de Haro
Married Inigo Lopez de Mendoza, and was mother of Maria who married Juan de Mendoza.
- Doña Maria Laso de Mendoza
First cousin and first wife of the second Count of Tendilla, with whom he had no children.
- Juan de Luna
Mentioned as Alvaro de Luna, the famous Minister of Juan II, who was opposed by the Marquis of Santillana.
- Charles V
Not directly mentioned, but the chapter references the reign of Juan I and other monarchs, and the Mendoza family's service to the crown.
Key passages
“El cavallo vos han muerto, 2 Subid Rey en mi cavallo.”
They have killed your horse, my King; mount mine instead.
Diego Hurtado de Mendoza's chivalrous act at the Battle of Aljubarrota, offering his horse to the King.
“Moza tan fermosa No vi en la frontera Como una vaquera De la Finojosa.”
I have never seen a girl so beautiful on the frontier as the shepherdess from Finojosa.
A verse from the Marquis of Santillana's serranilla, showcasing his poetic talent.