The protagonist of this picaresque novel, Lazarillo de Tormes, is a fictional character whose name has become synonymous with the Spanish term for "rogue" or "vagabond." Born in Toledo, Lazarillo narrates his life story, recounting his experiences as a young man navigating the harsh realities of 16th-century Spain. Through his adventures, the author provides a scathing critique of the social and economic conditions of the time.