1. Analyze the opening scene in Melibea’s garden. Why a garden? What might a garden signify? How do you interpret the words of Calisto and Melibea? Why does Melibea react in this manner? Can we read these words as genuine?
A garden can signify many things we have explored the symbolism of garden imagery a number of times in class. Just to name a few there could be a possible allusion to the Garden of Eden, a garden can be representative of growth and nourishment or even the beauty of nature domesticated in certain senses. I believe in this case the meanings best represented in the text are the former two, the allusion of the Garden of Eden or a place of growth and nourishment. Of course, this imagery is not literally represented by Calisto's interaction with Melibea and the ensuing despair he deals with, but it may instead serve as an ironic juxtaposition to heighten the drama. Alternatively, perhaps, the seed of Calisto's ignorance may just now be in the process of planting, as his struggle with his obsessive desire may bring his character to new heights.
The words of Calisto and Melibea seem to signify the central conflict in the plot as well as Calisto's main character flaw. That is, he is so absorbed by his passion for Melibea that he forsakes sainthood (perhaps the highest pursuit, figuratively) for the prospect of his feelings being returned. Her completely unreceptive response sets the stage for Calisto's journey and, I assume, broadly foreshadow the plot of the novel.
3. What are our initial impressions of Celestina? What type of character is this? What does she say which influences your analysis? What about her later exchanges with Parmeno? (And this back history with Parmeno’s mother – what do you think happens here?)
Celestina is a very interesting character in that she seems to be the unification of two ostensibly repellent character traits. On one hand, she is a woman of great guile with prowess over a certain criminal aspect of trickery, but on the other she acts like a long lost mother towards Parmeno. This duality is reflected as well in the starkly opposing words used to describe Celestina. The narrator, Parmeno, and seemingly society all deem Celestina to be filthy, sub-social, a prostitute, and generally someone not to be trusted. Calisto, on the other hand, goes out of his way to honor this woman (although it is only for his personal gain with Melibea). I think the backstory with Parmeno has foreshadowed an intriguing plot development that will bring Parmeno over to Sempronio's side. I foresee some kind of exchange between Calisto and Parmeno that will change his mind.
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