quotes Flashcards
(15 cards)
Ofelia’s mother expresses a harsh, rational worldview, denying the existence of magic and contrasting Ofelia’s imagination
“La magia no existe. No existe ni para ti, ni para mí, ni para nadie.” – Carmen
A key rule during one of Ofelia’s trials, reflecting temptation, obedience, and the dangers of disobedience in magical spaces.
“No comáis ni bebáis nada durante el banquete.” – Fauno
Introduces the fantasy realm as a safe, idealised refuge from the cruelty of the real world.
“El reino subterráneo, donde no existe la mentira ni el dolor.” – Narration (opening)
A bold rejection of imposed authority and a declaration of personal identity and resistance.
“El Capitán no es mi padre.” – Ofelia
Highlights Vidal’s fascist ideology and narcissism — he sees himself as the ultimate authority.
“Por encima de mí, no hay nadie.” – Capitán Vidal
While never said directly, Ofelia’s unwavering belief in magic gives her agency and inner strength.
“La magia está en mí.” – Ofelia (implied through her actions)
A powerful moral rebuke of blind obedience — a core theme of the film’s anti-fascist stance.
“Es que obedecer por obedecer, así, sin pensarlo, eso sólo lo hacen gentes como usted, Capitán.” – Doctor Ferreiro
Presents the Faun as a symbol of ancient nature, contrasting with the mechanical brutality of Vidal’s world
“Yo soy la montaña, el bosque, la tierra. Yo soy…” – Fauno
Marks the tension between rules and conscience — Ofelia’s refusal to obey is framed as morally right.
“¿Por qué no me obedeciste?” – Fauno
Expresses the traditional maternal role of sacrifice, even to the point of self-effacement.
“Lo que haga falta para que su hijo nazca bien.” – Carmen
Ofelia’s ultimate act of selflessness is framed as the fulfillment of her moral and royal destiny.
“Sacrificaste tu vida por la de un inocente.” – Narrator (ending)
Reflects the fascist obsession with purity, order, and legacy.
“Quiero que mi hijo nazca en una España limpia y nueva.” – Capitán Vidal
His dying wish is to preserve his legacy — but it’s denied by the resistance as an act of symbolic justice.
“Decidle a mi hijo… decidle a qué hora murió su padre.” – Capitán Vidal
Frames Ofelia’s death not as a tragedy, but as a spiritual return to a higher realm, mythologizing her story.
“Ofelia murió… y fue recordada por muchos siglos…” – Narrator (final scene)
Marks Ofelia’s final moral test — she is welcomed back as royalty for choosing compassion over obedience.
“Habéis elegido bien, Majestad.” – King of the Underworld (Ofelia’s father)
