Lope Enters with His Entourage: Metatheatricality in Ignacio Amestoy’s Lope y sus Doroteas

Abstract This article examines how Lope de Vega is brought to center stage as a character in the recent theater production Lope y sus Doroteas o cuando Lope quiere, quiere (2021), written by Ignacio Amestoy and directed by Ainhoa Amestoy. The play explores Lope’s last years, his literary work, his relationship with his youngest and illegitimate daughter, Antonia Clara, and his personal struggles. This analysis delves into some theatrical choices used in this production to craft the narrative and highlight Lope’s own obsessions and self-absolution through his relationship with his younger daughter. More specifically, it explores how metatheatrical devices draw attention to Lope’s past, present, and future as he confronts his own mistakes, love affairs, his daughter’s intimate relationship with a womanizer, and his own impending death.