“Dos palabras” – Isabel Allende

Elijah Ramirez

4 min read

Next Topic - Escritores contemporáneos de Estados Unidos y España

Listen to this study note

Study Guide Overview

This study guide covers Isabel Allende's "Dos Palabras," focusing on key plot points like Belisa's origins and the Colonel's transformation. It explores realismo mágico within the context of El Boom Latinamericano, analyzing characters like Belisa and the Colonel. The guide also provides background on author Isabel Allende, including her themes and awards. It emphasizes the power of words and explores social and political themes.

#AP Spanish Literature: "Dos Palabras" Study Guide 📚

Welcome! Let's make sure you're fully prepped for your AP Spanish Literature exam with a deep dive into Isabel Allende's "Dos Palabras." This guide is designed to be your go-to resource, especially the night before the exam. Let's get started!

#📖 Story Overview [Jump to this section]

"Dos Palabras," written in 1989 by Isabel Allende, is a key example of realismo mágico from the Latin American Boom. The story follows Belisa Crepusculario, a young woman who sells words, and the impact she has on a powerful Colonel.

#📝 Key Plot Points

Belisa's Origins: She names herself, escapes poverty, and learns to read and write. 💡
The Power of Words: Belisa sells stories, news, poems, and advice, offering secret words to help people cope with their problems.
The Colonel's Request: A feared rebel leader seeks Belisa's help to write a campaign speech. He also receives two secret words from her.
The Transformation: The Colonel becomes popular using Belisa's words but is tormented by the two secret words. He falls in love with her.
The Unspoken Words: The two secret words are never revealed, but many believe they are "Te amo" (I love you).

#🔍 Literary Analysis [Jump to this section]

#⌛ El Boom Latinamericano

Context: A literary movement in the 1960s and 70s, challenging European conventions.

Key Concept

This is a key context for understanding the story's themes and style.

* **Realismo Mágico:** Magic is embedded in reality to alter perceptions of time and space. It's a way to challenge Western rationalism and create a new world.

Memory Aid

Think of realismo mágico as everyday life with a sprinkle of the extraordinary!

* **Escapism:** Offered a way to escape the harsh political realities of the time.

#👪 Characters

Belisa Crepusculario: A resilient, independent woman who uses the power of words to make a living.
The Colonel: A feared leader who seeks love and respect through Belisa's words.

Quick Fact

He undergoes a significant transformation due to Belisa's influence.

* **El Mulato:** The Colonel's follower who brings Belisa to him.

#✍️ Author - Isabel Allende

Chilean-American Writer: Born in 1942, known for magical realism. Understanding Allende's background helps contextualize her themes.
Awards: Received Chile's National Literature Prize (2010) and the Presidential Medal of Freedom (2014).
Themes: Explores vivid characters, magical realism, and social issues, particularly gender equality.

markdown-image