Plays were divided into three acts and written in verse.

The classical unities o

f time and place were disregarded although that of action was retained. The plot
that carried the action was frequently supported by a relevant comic or serious
subplot, and a comic character (the gracioso) was often present. Lope overturne
d classical decorum by mixing comic and tragic elements, and having both nobles
(even royalty) and peasants appearing on the stage at the same time.
Thematically, Lope drew inspiration from a wide variety of sources: e.g. history
, classical mythology, the Bible, lives of saints, Italian literature. However,
two themes he worked with particular success were amorous cloak and dagger intri
gues (comedias de capa y espada) and honour conflicts, especially between the pe
asantry and nobility.
Fuenteovejuna is an historical play, based on an uprising in the village of Fuen
teovejuna (North West of Crdoba) in 1476. It was composed probably between 1612
and 1614. The action of the play takes place in 1476, but with implications not
just for the audience of the 17th century but for all ages: good governance, loy
alty, justice, the meaning of honour, trust, true love, sacrifice. Is nobility r
estricted only to social rank?
The main plot centres on the relationship between the noble, Fernn Gmez de Guzmn, C
omendador (Knight Commander) of the Order of Calatrava**, and the villagers of F
uenteovejuna; the subplot addresses the relationship between the Comendador and
the Catholic Monarchs. In both, the Comendador creates disorder. For order and h
armony to return, the Comendador must either recognise his error or be destroyed
.