“THE LIGHT OF THE NIGHT” IN THE FOOTLIGHTS: CERVANTES’ MOTIFS IN THE CONCEPT OF A MULTIMODAL DRAMA BY ANTONIO BUENO GARCIA
Authors:   UVA, Valladolid University, Khodorenko Anna A. 
Published: December 2024

The review examines the nature, characteristics, and new configurations of the dramatic multimodal
work of A. Bueno García “Cervantes in Algiers: Captive in Algiers, The Light of the Night”. The review dwells
upon thorough yet concise explanation of modes the elements interaction for the sake of conveying
meaning to evoke emotional responses from the audience.
The book under the review discloses the main theme of the pivotal role of love in Cervantes’ life,
acting both as a source of inspiration and as a means of resistance against despair. This investigation in
its turn sees the object of narrative, the forms of storytelling and the mode of emotional resonance to be
created through a multimodal scientific framework to address contemporary challenges in philosophical
and humanitarian thought. Thus, the analysis employs a multimodal discourse framework to uncover
how various modes of communication, visual, auditory, and textual, coalesce to enrich the narrative and
enhance audience engagement.
The purpose of this investigation is therefore to identify ways of multimodal interaction in the work
from historic and cultural prism using new methods of viewing it. By utilizing a systematic approach, this
study seeks to reveal how the various modalities function synergistically, contributing to the emotional
and thematic depth of the dramatic piece. To satisfy the aim and the objective, the investigation employs
comprehensible combination of methods, including a) the tools of multimodal discourse theory, b)
comparative method, c) historical and cultural contextualisation analysis. To specify, multimodal discourse
analysis methods tend to deeper examine diverse modes of communication means, assessing mainly how
visual elements, soundscapes, and textual narratives function to create a cohesive storytelling experience.
It also investigates how emotional resonance is generated through dramatic retelling and theatrical
adaptation, enhancing the audience’s connection to the narrative. Comparative analysis facilitates a
systematic comparison of the multimodal techniques employed in the work with other literary and
theatrical traditions. By exploring thematic and structural similarities and differences, the study highlights
the evolution of narrative forms and techniques over time. Historical-cultural contextualization situates the
multimodal aspects of the work within the broader historical and cultural spectrum of Cervantes’ legacy.
By examining the socio-political and cultural influences reflected in the narrative, the investigation reveals
deeper connections between the various modalities and the overarching themes of love, resistance, and
human resilience in a new kind of literary and theatrical adaptation.
This review seeks a scientific paradigm for analysing new literary forms, integrating visual elements
and soundscapes to create diverse narrative forms. These elements combine to form a rich tapestry that enhances the overall theatrical experience, fostering immersive interactions and encouraging audiences to
connect with characters and themes on a visceral level. By emphasizing the interplay between historical
fact and artistic interpretation, the review highlights the innovative aspects of multimodal configurations
and demonstrates how they revitalize the narrative for contemporary audiences. In humanistic paradigm,
this exploration underscores the transformative power of love and the resilience of the human spirit, as
conveyed through the rich multimodal tapestry of the work. The investigation invites audiences to reflect
on the enduring relevance of the themes presented, emphasizing the capacity of love and creativity to
transcend adversity and enrich our understanding of the human condition. Through this lens, Cervantes in
Algiers emerges not merely as a historical account but as a profound commentary on universal themes of
hope, love, and the quest for freedom.