The problem with which this investigation is concerned is that of analyzing and evaluating selected dramas and novelas of Juan Perez de Montalban. This study concludes that Montalban was not a writer of original works, but his familiarity with and utilization of certain literary devices, stereotyped situations, cliches, and popular themes, along with his notable talent in portraying women and rulers allowed him to produce works which met with great acclaim in his lifetime.

This thesis discusses Adelardo Lopez De Ayala's position in the drama of the nineteenth century. Topics covered include: Literary movements in Spain in the nineteenth century, Lopez De Ayala's treatment of plot, the moral element in Lopez De Ayala's plays and character delineation in Lopez De Ayala's plays.