Guida Cândido

At This Sovereign Supper: The Mystical Meal in Vicentian Morality in Auto da Alma

Introduction

At this sovereign supper: the mystical meal in vicentian morality in auto da alma. Uncover the mystical meal's symbolism and the Soul's journey in Gil Vicente's "Auto da Alma." Explore themes of temptation, redemption, and Catholic morality.

Abstract

Taking as a reference the "Auto da Alma," a morality play from the "Copilaçam" by Gil Vicente, the article seeks to uncover the symbolism and the literary-dramaturgical dimension of the mystical meal. The core of this study focuses on the analysis of the journey undertaken by the Soul. Initially, as an unsuspecting consumer, the Soul becomes a hostage to the Devil's gifts and promises. The Angel's role is observed as a support and guide towards rest in the Holy Mother Church, the welcoming inn. Attention is given to the symbolism of the altar as the table of the mystical meal, materialized in the insignia of the Passion and the promise of the Soul's comfort. Communion is seen as a restorative meal, but one that does not definitively save, reflecting the life of the Catholic man in a constant struggle between sin and redemption.

Review

The article, "At This Sovereign Supper: The Mystical Meal in Vicentian Morality in Auto da Alma," proposes an engaging exploration of Gil Vicente's *Auto da Alma*, a significant work within the "Copilaçam." The author's central aim is to dissect the symbolism and literary-dramaturgical significance of the mystical meal as depicted in this morality play. The study promises a focused analysis of the Soul's spiritual journey, a narrative arc central to understanding the play's didactic and theological underpinnings, from its initial entrapment by the Devil's allure to its guided progression towards spiritual sustenance. This abstract outlines a compelling methodology centered on a close reading of key dramatic elements and symbols. The tracing of the Soul's trajectory, moving from an "unsuspecting consumer" ensnared by temptation to a seeker of refuge in the "Holy Mother Church," offers a clear analytical framework. Particular attention will be paid to the Angel's role as a vital support and guide, and the profound symbolism associated with the altar as the "table of the mystical meal," imbued with the "insignia of the Passion." This approach suggests a nuanced interpretation of Vicentian morality, particularly in its exploration of how communion, while restorative, does not offer definitive salvation, mirroring the continuous spiritual struggle inherent in Catholic doctrine. The proposed article appears poised to make a valuable contribution to Vicentine studies and the broader understanding of medieval morality plays. By focusing on the intricate symbolism of the mystical meal and its connection to the Soul's ongoing battle between sin and redemption, it offers insights into the theological and dramatic complexities of *Auto da Alma*. The emphasis on communion as a restorative but not final act of salvation is particularly intriguing, reflecting a sophisticated understanding of Catholic spiritual life. Readers interested in Portuguese literature, medieval drama, and the theological dimensions of early modern plays will likely find this analysis to be both insightful and thought-provoking.

Full Text

Comments

You need to be logged in to post a comment.