Pepita Jimenez (1877)

Set in a 19th-century Andalusian village, the story follows Luis de Vargas, a seminarian torn between his religious faith and his attraction to the widow Pepita Jiménez. As he navigates his conflicting emotions, the novel delves into themes of faith, morality, and sexuality within Spanish society. Richly depicting local customs and social dynamics, it blends romantic and realistic elements, making it a significant work in Spanish literature that has inspired numerous adaptations in theater and film.