Ever since I picked up Der Dreispitz (or The Three-Cornered Hat), I couldn't put it down. It's a classic Spanish novel that reads like a farce, and it's way more fun than I expected.

The Story

The story is set in a small Spanish town. Lucas, the miller, is happily married to the beautiful Frasquita. The local magistrate, a pompous and corrupt man, has his eye on Frasquita. One evening, he hatches a plan to sneak into the miller's house while Lucas is away. But Lucas gets suspicious and decides to turn the tables. What follows is a hilarious night of role-reversal, with the magistrate and the miller essentially swapping places, leading to a series of misunderstandings that leave the whole town in an uproar.

Why You Should Read It

This book is a masterclass in comic timing. The plot moves like clockwork, each misunderstanding perfectly setting up the next. But it's not just silly. Underneath the laughter, Alarcón is poking fun at social hierarchies and the abuse of power. The magistrate is a ridiculous figure, and seeing the clever miller outwit him is deeply satisfying. Frasquita is also a great character—sharp and fully aware of what's going on, not just a passive prize to be won.

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone who loves a clever, fast-paced comedy of errors. If you enjoy stories about the little guy outsmarting the powerful, or if you just want a genuinely funny classic that doesn't feel dusty, this is your book. It's short, sharp, and leaves you with a smile.