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| Most Spanish festivals and celebrations have their roots in Roman Catholic traditions |
It is impossible to talk about the Spanish mentality without taking into consideration the role of the Roman Catholic Church. For centuries, this has been the dominant and defining national trait, and though active church-going is decreasing with the younger generations, the influence of Catholicism in every day life cannot be ignored. Not necessarily manifested as following Pope's decrees - divorce is easier to get than anywhere else and same-sex marriages are legal - it will inevitably resurface when faced with members of other faiths. It is seen in the names as well: most parents still follow the tradition of naming their children after a saint, and Jesus is also a very popular name, not to mention Maria, in all the possible combinations. Finally, religion is also at the heart of most festivals and celebrations, and there is certainly no lack of those in Spain!
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| Bullfighting engenders two predominant aspects of Spanish mentality: machismo and the concept of honor |
Linked to both Catholicism and machismo, honor is a very predominant Spanish characteristic. Doing the honorable thing, being an honorable man, not bringing dishonor on the family, being perceived as honorable... Treated as a literary theme since the Middle Ages and refined in the Renaissance, this is one aspect of life that Spaniards will never quite leave behind.
Modern Spain has seen many advances, among other in the lifestyle and situation of women. However, as the term itself was coined in the Spanish language, machismo is still very much noted in Spain. Sure, there are generations of educated women in the cities... Still, they face real men, whose roles as men are clearly defined. What is bullfighting if not an expression of the machista spirit? The enactment of male ideals of bravery, courage in face of danger and impassivity above all.
