XIV. Where Lazaro Tells What Happened to Him at a Dinner

In this chapter of “The Life of Lazarillo of Tormes,” Lazaro describes a series of humorous and chaotic events leading up to and during a dinner party. After being criticized by the tailor’s wife for his ragged appearance, they rush to a gathering where other attendees contribute various dishes, creating a potluck-style feast. The men entertain themselves with the ladies, while Lazaro, assigned as the doorman, humorously contemplates the practicality of carrying meals in pockets as he witnesses the attendees do.

The dinner turns raucous as the guests indulge in food, drink, and merry-making, leading to a scandalous and tumultuous scene when an argument over payment escalates into a brawl. The chaos attracts the attention of law officers, prompting guests to scatter and hide in humorous fashion – including one couple found in a compromising position inside a rolling cask, sparking Lazaro’s innocent speculation about supernatural involvement.

As the officers conduct a thorough but ultimately slapstick search, they inadvertently uncover more hidden guests, including one man submerged in a jug of oil and another incident involving a flour ambush that incapacitates the law enforcement, leading to their humiliation and eventual overpowering by the attendees. The chapter closes with the officers bound and handled like livestock, marking a complete and farcical overturning of authority.

Throughout, Lazaro’s observations and the exaggerated mishaps serve as a comedic reflection on social norms, indulgence, and the lengths to which individuals will go to avoid the consequences of their revelry. His narrative maintains a mix of innocence and sly wit, offering a satirical look at human behavior under the guise of feasting and festivity.