The symbol of Andrea
Andrea is an emblem of the effects of civil wars in the world. In the book Nada, Andrea is orphaned because her parents are killed during the Spanish Civil War. Before the civil war, Andrea's parents were moderately rich, and they were able to provide everything she needed. However, after they died, things changed, and Andrea was forced to depend on the government for everything, including her studies. Therefore, civil war is devastating because it leaves children without parents, destroys property, and destabilizes the country.
Gloria
Gloria is a symbol of domestic violence against women. Gloria suffers in silence from the brutal abuse from her husband, and she does not want anybody to know what she is going through. The author uses Gloria's character to educate society that women should voice their sufferings in marriage to prevent such cases from happening.
The Spanish Civil War
The Spanish Civil War symbolizes suffering and poverty for the surviving victims. Few individuals control the country's resources, while those who lost everything during the war live in absolute poverty. Andrea is an example of those who lost everything, and she is now relying on well-wishers for help.
Ena’s Father
Ena’s father denotes kindness and the willingness to make life better for others. Andrea has a reason to smile because Ena’s father is dedicated to funding her education and helping her build her future career. Good-hearted people who offer aid unconditionally are rare in this world.
The Spanish government
The Spanish government is a symbol of suppression. Under the Francoist regime, people are not free to express their opinions because freedom of speech is suppressed. Any person who goes against the government is mistreated and even killed. For instance, Uncle Roman is ready to commit suicide instead of allowing himself to be handled by the brutal government which is in place.
