Fernando de Rojas was a Spanish author best known for his work “La Celestina,” also known as “Tragicomedia de Calisto y Melibea” or simply “Celestina.” This work is considered one of the greatest masterpieces of Spanish literature and a significant precursor to the Spanish Golden Age theater.
Rojas was born around 1465 in La Puebla de Montalbán, Toledo, Spain. He studied law at the University of Salamanca and later became an attorney in Talavera de la Reina. Despite his legal background, Rojas is primarily remembered for his literary contributions.
“La Celestina” was originally published in 1499 and is a tragicomedy that tells the story of the ill-fated love affair between Calisto and Melibea, with the titular character, Celestina, serving as the catalyst for their relationship. The work is renowned for its complex characters, intricate plot, and exploration of themes such as love, desire, and human nature. It is written in dialogue form and is notable for its realistic portrayal of life in 15th-century Spain.
Rojas’ authorship of “La Celestina” has been the subject of debate among scholars, with some suggesting that he may have been the sole author while others argue that it was a collaborative effort. Regardless, Rojas’ name has become synonymous with the work, and he is celebrated as one of the most important figures in Spanish literature. “La Celestina” continues to be studied and admired for its enduring literary significance.
In Salamanca, there is a park which is called “Huerto de Calixto y Melibea.” The town hall has given this park the atmosphere of gardens of the time of La Celestina. This is because, if you read the book, and although Fernando de Rojas does not name any city, you may draw the conclusion that he was thinking of Salamanca while writing it.