Contigo Pan y Cebolla by Manuel Eduardo de Gorostiza
Just discovered a gem from the 1800s that reads like it was written yesterday. 'Contigo Pan y Cebolla' is a Spanish comedy that's all about cleverness winning the day.
The Story
The plot is a classic setup. A wealthy but foolish older man, Don Pedro, wants to marry the young and sharp-witted Doña Inés. She, however, is in love with a poor but worthy young man named Don Carlos. The title, which means 'With You, Bread and Onion,' is Inés's way of saying she'd rather live in poverty with her true love than in luxury with the wrong person. The whole play is the hilarious and clever scheme she cooks up, with the help of her maid, to outsmart Don Pedro and get her happy ending.
Why You Should Read It
What surprised me is how fresh it feels. Doña Inés is a fantastic character—she's not a passive heroine waiting to be saved. She's the mastermind. The dialogue is snappy and full of double meanings. It's a fun reminder that the battle of wits between young love and old money is a story we still love to see. Gorostiza doesn't preach; he just lets his clever characters drive the action and make you laugh.
Final Verdict
Perfect for anyone who enjoys a smart, fast-paced comedy. If you like Jane Austen's social maneuvering or the playful deceptions in Shakespeare's lighter plays, you'll feel right at home here. It's also a great, accessible peek into 19th-century Spanish theater. Don't let the age of the book fool you—this story has a very modern heartbeat.
You are viewing a work that belongs to the global public domain. Knowledge should be free and accessible.