Review of: Women in the Prose of María de Zayas

With Women in the Prose of Maria de Zayas, Eavan O'Brien presents a remarkable, exception ally well-researched addition to the ever-increasing Maria de Zayas library, albeit with what is, in my estimation, an unfortunate and inexpressive title. O'Brien wholly succeeds in her stated intention to study "the complex ramifications of women's interaction in [Zayas's] prose" (5). Without a doubt, this study does represent "a new contribution to the study of Zayas's prose, unearthing a neglected and innovative aspect, its gynocentrism" (6). Using a very close reading of all twenty tales in Novelas amorosas y ejemplares and Desenganos amorosos, supported by an extensive bibliography and myriad footnotes, O'Brien examines friendships, sisterhood, and their subversion; female relationships crossing the boundaries of class; and mother-daughter relationships, including surrogate mothers and the Virgin Mary, Mother of God.