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1917
A novel written in the early 20th century. This work delves into the tangled lives of two childhood friends, Abel and Joaquín, whose paths diverge dramatically as their ambitions clash and intertwine with themes of love, jealousy, and rivalry. Central to the narrative is Joaquín's deep-seated envy of Abel’s artistic talent and his emotional turmoil as he faces betrayal in love and friendship. The opening of the novel sets the stage for Joaquín Monegro's reflective narrative, which reveals his lifelong friendship with Abel Sánchez. The two grew up together, but their differing aspirations lead to subtle animosities, especially as Joaquín pursues a career in medicine while Abel dedicates himself to art. As childhood innocence fades, so does their bond, complicated further by Joaquín's affection for Abel's love interest, Helena. Through their dynamic, Unamuno explores complex emotions, laying the foundation for the themes of envy and identity that will be pivotal as the story unfolds.