As a dramatist, Calderon was not in a position to express his personal opinion in such a direct manner, as perhaps a novelist is able to. Despite this, dramatists found other ways to manipulate their characters and therefore the reaction of their audience. The characterisation of the protagonist don Gutierre in `El Medico de su Honra' has created a multitude of disagreement amongst the critics concerning his culpability. It is through don Gutierre's actions that the audience is able to come to a conclusion about his character and for what reason he has decided to behave in such a way.

What I believe to be the most important characteristic of the whole play is the theme of honour, which evidently is the main motivation for all the characters. It is vital to consider the character of don Gutierre hand in hand with the `code of honour' which is...