In this study, Raymond MacCurdy lends his considerable expertise in Golden Age tragedy to the occidental universal of the 'tragic fall' of a beloved figure. The first half of the volume centers the figure of the fallen favorite in Golden Age Spain, encompassing the work of playwrights of vastly varied renown, and framing figures, such as Álvaro de Luna, in their social, political, and cultural milieus. The second half of the volume ties this figure's Spanish instantiation to its presence throughout the European context. This groundbreaking study is a great addition to the critical canon on Golden Age tragedy, and serves as a step in the breakdown of barriers between Iberian and European studies.