The Cid: A Son's Duty
Young Rodrigo Diaz's father is insulted by the powerful Don Gomez. Though barely a man, Rodrigo challenges and kills Gomez to avenge his father's honor. This creates a problem: Gomez's daughter Ximena loved Rodrigo, and now he has killed her father. Yet she chooses to marry him, honoring both her love and his duty. Rodrigo becomes the Cid ("Lord"), champion of Spain against the Moors.
The Text
What You'll Learn
Comprehension
Explains that Rodrigo's father was insulted by Don Gomez
Cause & Consequence
Explains why Rodrigo had to fight: family honor required vengeance
Meaning
Takes a position on whether Rodrigo was right to kill for honor
Evidence
Cites a specific passage (the insult, the duel, Ximena's choice)
Defense
Maintains or thoughtfully revises their position under challenge
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