A realistic social drama set in Granada between 1855 and 1911. The central character, Rosita, is an atrractive and hopeful 20-year-old, in love with her cousin. Act II is set in 1900 and portrays the movement of Progress beyond Rosita's home whilst she waits for her cousin. The play ends dramatically with an anguished portrayal of Rosita as an ageing spinster. Lorca's treatment of Rosita is one of sympathy and understanding as he records her bitter humiliation.