Los elementos teatrales para el estudio semiótico de la obra juanita la larga.

Abstract

The novel Juanita la Larga, written by Juan Valera in 1895, has long been interpreted as a romantic work. This work proposes critical reading from a semiotic and theatrical perspective, in which scenes and dialogue represent ongoing social conflicts. A qualitative approach was used, using hermeneutic, comparative, exegetical, descriptive, and bibliographic methods. The techniques applied were interviews and a focus group with people of different ages and professions. This combination allowed for the contrast of the work's content with real experiences through a process of triangulation. The results revealed that power can be exercised without official positions, that class inequality limits opportunities, that religion influences social decisions, and that women still face obstacles to making their own decisions. Theatrical elements were also recognized in the work, such as the narrative voice, characters, conflicts, and dialogues. The participation of the interviewees contributed to ethical, psychological, religious, familial, and youthful perspectives that enriched the analysis. This work demonstrates that Juanita la Larga remains a relevant work that allows us to reflect on current issues. Reading invites us to use literature as a tool to critically consider power, freedom, and inequality in society.