Volver – Pedro Almodóvar – Character Study: Paco

Volver – Pedro Almodóvar – Character Study: Paco

A detailed resource written in Spanish exploring the character of Paco in Volver.

The resource examines Paco as a relatively briefly seen but highly significant character whose importance lies less in psychological development than in the consequences of his actions and his role as a narrative trigger.

Key features:

• Exploration of Paco as a narrative catalyst whose actions trigger the central crisis involving Paula and Raimunda
• Analysis of his passivity, unemployment, alcohol use and domestic irresponsibility in contrast with Raimunda’s work, organisation and agency
• Examination of the threat he creates within the family home and his abuse of a position that should involve protection and care
• Analysis of the disturbing intergenerational parallel between Paco’s behaviour towards Paula and Raimunda’s earlier experience of abuse
• Exploration of Paco as a representation of abusive masculinity, entitlement and misuse of power
• Analysis of his death and body as an inversion of power, introducing black humour while recentring the narrative on female survival and solidarity
• Activities in Spanish to reinforce and practise character analysis, including translation, grammar, essay planning, creative work and a comprehensive answer key