José Zorrilla, best known for the iconic Don Juan Tenorio, spent a huge part of his creative life captivated by the history of Granada. This book, the second volume of his poetic work, focuses on the final, tense moments of the Nasrid kingdom under Sultan Boabdil (al-Hamar).

The Story

We pick up with Boabdil in a terrible spot. He's the ruler, but his power is fragile. Inside the Alhambra, there's family drama and political scheming. Outside, the forces of Ferdinand and Isabella are closing in, determined to take the city. The book follows Boabdil's struggle as he tries to negotiate, fight, and ultimately come to terms with the inevitable. It’s the lead-up to the famous surrender in 1492. Zorrilla doesn't just list events; he builds the atmosphere—the anxiety in the court, the sadness of saying goodbye to a home, the mix of defiance and defeat in Boabdil's heart.

Why You Should Read It

Look, this isn't a fast-paced novel. It's a rich, lyrical poem. What grabbed me was Zorrilla's sheer sympathy for Boabdil. He's not just a historical footnote here; he's a tragic figure, full of pride and pain. You get a real sense of the weight of history on one person's shoulders. The language is lush and dramatic, painting vivid pictures of the Alhambra's halls and the surrounding mountains. It makes you feel the profound loss of that era, not from a textbook perspective, but from a human one. It’s history remembered as a grand, emotional opera.

Final Verdict

This is a book for a specific, but wonderful, kind of reader. It's perfect for anyone who loves Romantic poetry and doesn't mind a slower, more atmospheric read. If you're fascinated by Spanish history, especially the nuanced story of al-Andalus, Zorrilla's passionate take is essential. It's also great for writers or artists looking for a powerful study in mood and tragic character. Just be ready to sink into the language and the melancholy beauty of it all.