«Buscad mujer que no para»

Imágenes satíricas del parto en pliegos de cordel

Abstract

The article delves into the realm of Spanish broadside literature, examining its portrayal of childbirth through satirical lenses. It explores how these ballads, circulating prolifically for over five centuries, constructed cultural narratives around gender roles and power dynamics. By focusing on burlesque romances that mock women and present childbirth as a male trial, the study reveals the inversion of reality embedded within these texts. Through a critical analysis of popular printed literature from the 17th to 19th centuries, the article unpacks how gender imbalances were reinforced through humor and satire. It raises questions about audience reception and the complex interplay of societal norms and individual interpretations. Ultimately, the research sheds light on the multifaceted nature of Spanish broadside ballads as a mass communication medium, challenging simplistic interpretations and highlighting their role in shaping cultural perceptions.