"La Montálvez" by José María de Pereda is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story introduces us to the main character, Don Javier, the Marquess of Montálvez, exploring his life and relationships, particularly with his wife and their children. The initial chapters set the stage for themes of social status, family dynamics, and the quest for an heir that can continue the legacy of the Montálvez title. At the
start of the novel, we find the Marquess of Montálvez characterized by a complacent yet superficial life, filled with vanity and social aspirations. He is eager for a male heir, which becomes a source of societal pressure and personal disappointment when his wife gives birth to a daughter, Verónica. As the narrative unfolds, we see the complex dynamics within the family, revealing the Marquess's growing disdain for his daughter in favor of his desires for a son. The opening chapters also touch on societal expectations surrounding marriage, wealth, and the roles of women, setting the stage for Verónica's development as she navigates the contrasting affections and neglect within her aristocratic upbringing. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
