Cristalián de España

by Beatriz Bernal, Jodi Growitz (Compiler)

Cristalian de Espana, the only undisputed, extant, Castilian, female-authored, libro de caballerias know to literary history, is restored to print, its first republication since 1608. Beatriz Bernal of Valladolid, Spain, published her chivalric romance in 1545. From its debut to second Italian translation, the Cristalian remained in print for at least fifty years, enjoyed by readers and listeners alike who enjoyed chivalry through a woman's pen. The Cristalian stands out from the countless romances of the genre, and not simply because of the hand that brought it to life. Bernal's contribution defies gender restrictions by leveling the scales of social control typically portrayed by chivalric microcosms. The imbalanced (and antiquated) gender dichotomy is transformed by a harmonious adherence to chivalric ideals. Magnanimous, courageous and benevolent, characters of both genders cross boundaries and perform chivalry together through actions that redefine gender constructions and, consequently, chivalric codes of conduct. Men and women battle side-by-side, pursue love interests and marriage (or not), travel the world in search of adventure (accompanied or alone), and restore peace to Christendom...together. Bernal's romance has received considerable scholarly attention in the past decade in response to the few chapters now available in English and Spanish. Cristalian de Espana has not, however, seen its own republication in any language since 1608. Without accessibility it disappeared, forgotten amongst its male-authored caballerias that have, fortuitously, escaped mortality. This transcription of Book I and II is a replica of its 1545 debut, untouched by modern standards. A caveat for contemporary readers: Beatriz Bernal's Cristalian was written for the curious; those with both inquisitive minds and adventurous natures who are prepared to carry out an important quest; the reconstruction of Spain's legitimate literary tradition."

898 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1545

Reviews

[Martín · Rating 4 out of 5]

Un libro de caballerías del siglo XVI muy ejemplar del género. Contiene gestas fantásticas de héroes cortesanos, bellas damas y princesas, monstruos terribles, gigantes, batallas y mucha magia.
Este libro de caballerías es importante por ser el único en nuestro país escrito y firmado por una mujer, doña Beatriz Bernal.
Además, contiene uno de los personajes femeninos más interesantes: la doncella guerrera Minerva, tan bella como fuerte.