Benina as a model of sanctity in the light of Christianism, Hebraism and Islamism

Abstract

This paper focuses on Benina, the protagonist of Galdos’ novel Misericordia, and on her moral exemplarity. In particular, Benina’s character is analyzed throughout her encounters with blind Almudena, don Frasquito Ponte and doña Paca’s daughter-in-law Juliana, so that her moral qualities stand out, in accordance to the teachings of the three religions of the Book. Thus, Galdos’ skill in creating a character at the same time exemplary and realistic, specific and universal is revealed: with Benina, he managed to offer a model of behaviour that can still challenge contemporary readers.