The Intellectual’s Failure According to Rosario Castellanos: An Analysis Based on her Essays and Dramaturgy

Abstract

This article considers the little-explored concern of Rosario Castellanos regarding the mission and corruption of the intellectual. For this purpose, the play Tablero de damas (1952) is studied considering a selection of essays published between 1957 and 1971. Through the analysis of each of the characters in the drama, who represent the various facets of intellectual failure, it is shown that this work not only mocks a group of poets; but also criticizes the intellectual society, its relationship with the Mexican community, its obligations and its decline. This research aims to collaborate with the vindication of the theater and essays in the work of Rosario Castellanos through the study of little-recognized texts, but which themes are still valid.