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The Time of the Doves: Allegory Explained

“The Time of the Doves” is a novel written by Mercè Rodoreda, a renowned Catalan novelist. The novel is set against the backdrop of the Spanish Civil War and the early years of Franco’s dictatorship. The story is told through the eyes of the protagonist, Natalia, a shopkeeper in Barcelona.

A peaceful dove perched on a branch, surrounded by blooming flowers and lush greenery. The sun shines down, casting a warm glow on the serene scene

The novel is a poignant exploration of a woman’s life and her struggles with love, loss, and survival. The title of the novel, “The Time of the Doves,” is an allegory that represents the fragility and vulnerability of life during the turbulent times of war and dictatorship. The novel has been translated into over 20 languages and has become the most acclaimed Catalan novel of all time.

In this article, the allegory of “The Time of the Doves” will be explored and explained. The article will delve into the symbolism behind the title and how it relates to the themes of the novel. The article will also analyze the character of Natalia and how her experiences reflect the struggles of the Catalan people during the Spanish Civil War and Franco’s dictatorship.

Background on ‘The Time of the Doves’

A peaceful dove perched on a weathered branch, surrounded by blooming flowers and a serene countryside landscape

‘The Time of the Doves’ is a novel written by Mercè Rodoreda, a renowned Catalan author. The book was first published in 1962 and has since been translated into over 20 languages, cementing its place as one of the most acclaimed Catalan novels of all time.

The novel is set in Barcelona and revolves around the life of Natalia, a young woman working in a pastry shop. The story takes place before, during, and after the Spanish Civil War, providing a unique perspective on the political and social climate of the time.

Rodoreda’s prose is poetic and quirky, creating a surreal and hypnotizing atmosphere that leaves readers mesmerized. The novel’s title is derived from a square in Barcelona’s Gràcia district, adding a touch of local flavor to the story.

‘The Time of the Doves’ has been praised for its allegorical elements, with Natalia’s journey symbolizing the struggles and hardships faced by the Catalan people during the Spanish Civil War. The novel also explores themes of love, loss, and the human condition, making it a timeless piece of literature that resonates with readers to this day.

Mercè Rodoreda Biography

A dove flies through a vibrant city, symbolizing the protagonist's pursuit of freedom and peace in Mercè Rodoreda's novel

Mercè Rodoreda i Gurguí was a prominent Catalan novelist born in Barcelona, Spain on October 10, 1908. She is widely considered as one of the most important Catalan writers of all time. Her works often depict the struggles of women in a patriarchal society and the impact of political conflicts on ordinary people.

Rodoreda’s literary career began in the 1930s with the publication of her first novel, “Sóc una dona honrada, carinyosa i amb seny” (I am an honest, affectionate and sensible woman). However, it was her novel “La plaça del Diamant” (The Time of the Doves) published in 1962 that brought her international recognition. The novel has been translated into over 20 languages and is considered a masterpiece of Catalan literature.

Rodoreda was forced into exile during the Spanish Civil War and spent many years living in France and Switzerland. She returned to Catalonia in 1972 and continued to write until her death in 1983. In addition to her novels, Rodoreda also wrote short stories and plays.

Throughout her career, Rodoreda received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to literature. In 1980, she was awarded the prestigious Creu de Sant Jordi, the highest civil distinction awarded by the Catalan government. The Mercè Rodoreda Prize, named in her honor, is awarded annually to the best work of fiction written in Catalan.

Despite her success, Rodoreda remained humble and dedicated to her craft. She once said, “Writing is a way of living, of feeling, of being.” Her legacy continues to inspire and influence writers and readers around the world.

Overview of Allegory

A serene dove flying over a peaceful countryside, with a clock in the sky symbolizing the passage of time

The Time of the Doves by Mercè Rodoreda is a novel that is rich in allegory. Allegory is a literary device that uses symbolic characters, objects, or events to represent abstract ideas or moral principles. In this book, the author uses allegory to convey the themes of love, war, and survival.

One of the most prominent allegorical elements in The Time of the Doves is the character of Natalia. Natalia represents the common people of Spain who were caught in the middle of the Spanish Civil War. Her struggles with poverty, loss, and survival are symbolic of the struggles of the Spanish people during this turbulent period in their history.

Another allegorical element in the book is the setting of the story. The Diamond Square, where Natalia lives, represents the chaos and violence of the war. The pigeons that Natalia cares for symbolize the innocent victims of the war.

The author also uses allegory to explore the themes of love and loss. The relationship between Natalia and her husband, Quimet, represents the fragility of love in a time of war. Their separation and eventual reunion symbolize the hope that love can overcome even the most difficult circumstances.

Allegorical Elements in ‘The Time of the Doves’

A dove flying over a city, with a clock tower in the background, symbolizing the passage of time and the struggle for peace in Mercè Rodoreda's 'The Time of the Doves.'

The Doves as Symbols

In ‘The Time of the Doves’, the doves symbolize peace, love, and freedom. Natalia, the protagonist, associates the doves with her own longing for freedom and a peaceful life. The doves also represent the innocence of Natalia’s early life and her desire to return to that state of purity. The doves are a recurring symbol throughout the novel, appearing at key moments to remind the reader of their significance.

Natalia’s Journey

Natalia’s journey in the novel represents the journey of the human soul towards enlightenment. Her struggles with poverty, war, and loss mirror the struggles of humanity as we search for meaning and purpose in our lives. Her journey towards self-discovery is a reminder that we must all search for our own truth and purpose in life, even in the face of adversity.

The City of Barcelona

The city of Barcelona represents the larger world outside of Natalia’s personal experiences. It is a symbol of the chaos and destruction that can be wrought by war and political upheaval. The city is also a symbol of hope and resilience, as the people of Barcelona come together to rebuild their lives and their city in the aftermath of war. The city serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope for a better future.

Historical Context and Its Influence

The Time of the Doves by Mercè Rodoreda is set during the Spanish Civil War and its aftermath. The novel portrays the struggles of ordinary people during the war and the early years of Franco’s dictatorship. The war had a profound impact on the lives of the people in Spain, and it is reflected in the novel.

The war brought about a significant change in the social and political landscape of Spain. The novel highlights the struggles of the working-class people who were the most affected by the war. The protagonist, Natalia, is a shopkeeper who faces many challenges during the war. She loses her husband and struggles to make ends meet.

The novel also reflects the impact of the war on women. Women had to take on new roles during the war, and their lives were changed forever. Natalia, the protagonist, is a strong and resilient woman who faces many challenges during the war. She has to take care of her family and keep her business running while dealing with personal loss.

Character Analysis and Allegorical Roles

Natalia (Colometa)

Natalia, also known as Colometa, is the protagonist of the novel. She is a shopkeeper in Barcelona who experiences the Spanish Civil War and Franco’s dictatorship. Natalia’s character represents the common people of Catalonia who were caught up in the political turmoil of the era. Her life is a reflection of the struggles and hardships endured by the working-class women during this time. The dove allegory is used to represent Natalia’s innocence and purity, which is gradually lost as she experiences the brutality of the war and the oppression of the dictatorship.

Quimet

Quimet is Natalia’s husband, who is portrayed as a controlling and abusive character. He is a symbol of the oppressive regime of Franco’s dictatorship. Quimet’s character represents the traditional patriarchal society in which women were expected to be subservient to men. He is also a symbol of the greed and corruption that characterized the Francoist regime.

The Other Characters

The other characters in the novel represent different aspects of the society and political climate of the time. For example, Pere, Natalia’s lover, represents the resistance movement against Franco’s dictatorship. The character of Rosa represents the women who were forced into prostitution due to poverty and desperation. The character of Antoni represents the intellectuals who were persecuted by the Francoist regime.

Themes and Motifs

The Time of the Doves by Mercè Rodoreda is a novel that explores various themes and motifs. The following are some of the prominent ones:

Themes

  1. Love and Relationships: The novel explores the theme of love and relationships through the protagonist Natalia’s relationships with different men. It portrays the complexity of love and how it can be both beautiful and painful.

  2. War and Violence: The novel is set during the Spanish Civil War, and the violence and destruction caused by the war are evident throughout the story. It portrays the devastating effects of war on individuals and society.

  3. Oppression and Resistance: The novel also explores the theme of oppression and resistance. Natalia’s life is marked by oppression, and she, along with other characters, resists the oppressive forces in their own ways.

Motifs

  1. Birds: Birds are a recurring motif in the novel, symbolizing freedom and escape. Natalia’s nickname, “Colometa,” means “little dove,” and the image of doves appears throughout the story.

  2. Diamonds: Diamonds are another recurring motif in the novel, symbolizing both beauty and danger. Natalia’s husband, Quimet, works in a diamond factory, and the diamond becomes a symbol of his obsession with wealth and power.

  3. Water: Water is a recurring motif in the novel, symbolizing both life and death. Natalia’s son drowns in the river, and water becomes a symbol of the fragility of life.

Literary Techniques Used by Rodoreda

Rodoreda’s The Time of the Doves is a masterpiece of literature that uses various literary techniques to convey its message. One of the most noticeable techniques is the use of allegory. The novel is a symbolic representation of the Spanish Civil War and its aftermath. The pigeons in the novel, for instance, represent the innocent victims of the war. The author also uses imagery to create a vivid picture of the characters’ emotions and surroundings.

Another technique used by Rodoreda is the stream of consciousness. The novel is narrated from Natalia’s point of view, and the author uses this technique to give the reader a glimpse into the character’s inner thoughts and feelings. The use of flashbacks is also prevalent throughout the novel. Rodoreda uses this technique to provide the reader with a deeper understanding of Natalia’s past and how it has shaped her present.

The author also employs symbolism to convey her message. The diamond square, for instance, represents Natalia’s life, which starts off bright and full of hope but is later shattered by the war. The use of repetition is also evident in the novel. The author repeats certain phrases and words to emphasize their importance and to create a sense of rhythm.

Interpreting the Ending

The ending of “The Time of the Doves” by Mercè Rodoreda is open to interpretation. Some readers may see it as a hopeful ending, while others may view it as tragic.

Throughout the novel, Natalia struggles to find happiness and meaning in her life. She faces numerous challenges, including poverty, war, and the loss of loved ones. Despite these difficulties, she remains resilient and determined to survive.

In the final chapter, Natalia is reunited with her husband, Quimet, who had been presumed dead. They embrace each other, and Natalia reflects on the beauty of life. Some readers may interpret this as a happy ending, as Natalia has finally found the love and companionship she has been seeking.

However, other readers may view the ending as tragic. Quimet’s return is bittersweet, as he is a changed man who has been traumatized by the war. Natalia’s joy is short-lived, as she realizes that she and Quimet are no longer the same people they once were.

The Novel’s Reception and Legacy

The Time of the Doves, written by Mercè Rodoreda, has received critical acclaim since its publication in 1962. The novel has been translated into more than 20 languages, and it has been recognized as one of the most important works of Catalan literature.

The novel’s themes of love, war, and survival have resonated with readers around the world, making it a classic of modern literature. The book has been praised for its poetic language and its ability to capture the emotions of the characters.

The Time of the Doves has also been adapted for the stage, television, and film. In 1987, the novel was adapted into a film titled “La plaça del diamant,” which won numerous awards at international film festivals.

Comparisons to Other Allegorical Works

When it comes to allegorical works, comparisons are inevitable. One of the most famous allegorical works is George Orwell’s “Animal Farm,” where animals take over a farm and create a society that mirrors the Soviet Union. Similarly, “The Time of the Doves” is an allegory for the Spanish Civil War and its aftermath. Both works use animals and people, respectively, to represent political ideologies and societal classes.

Another allegorical work that can be compared to “The Time of the Doves” is Franz Kafka’s “The Metamorphosis.” In “The Metamorphosis,” the protagonist wakes up one day transformed into a giant insect. The story is an allegory for the alienation and dehumanization of modern society. Similarly, “The Time of the Doves” uses Natalia’s personal struggles to represent the struggles of the Catalan people during the Spanish Civil War.

Finally, “The Time of the Doves” can be compared to Gabriel Garcia Marquez’s “One Hundred Years of Solitude.” Both works use magical realism to tell the story of a family and their struggles. However, while “One Hundred Years of Solitude” is a multi-generational saga, “The Time of the Doves” focuses on one woman’s life and how it is affected by the political turmoil of her time.