The Spanish word "Lazarillo" is spelled with a "z" instead of an "s" because it follows the spelling convention of words that end in "-illo" or "-illa" (e.g. caballito, sencillito). The pronunciation of the "z" in Lazarillo is similar to the English "th" sound in "the" or "thick". It is represented by the IPA symbol /θ/. Thus, the correct pronunciation of Lazarillo is \la.θaˈɾi.ʎo\, with the stress on the second to last syllable.
Lazarillo is a Spanish noun that refers to a literary character originating from a 16th-century Spanish novel called "La vida de Lazarillo de Tormes y de sus fortunas y adversidades" (The Life of Lazarillo de Tormes and His Fortunes and Adversities). The term "Lazarillo" can also be used to describe any person or protagonist who exhibits the traits or experiences similar to the character Lazarillo portrayed in the novel.
The character of Lazarillo represents a young boy from a poor family, raised in an impoverished environment. He serves as a guide, or a blind man's assistant, and through a series of adventures, he learns to survive in a harsh and deceitful world. Lazarillo is known for his wit, resourcefulness, and cunning nature, as he encounters numerous masters who manipulate and mistreat him for their own gain.
The term "Lazarillo" has since become associated with the concept of a street-smart individual, capable of navigating through tough circumstances and finding alternative solutions to problems. It suggests someone who is versatile, adaptable, and can use their intelligence to overcome challenges and achieve their goals, particularly in challenging or disadvantaged situations.
Additionally, "Lazarillo" can be used figuratively to describe a person who takes on the role of a guide or mentor, assisting someone in navigating through difficult situations, similar to how the character Lazarillo aided the blind man.
The word "Lazarillo" comes from the Spanish language and has its roots in the Latin word "Lazarus", ultimately derived from the Greek "Lazaros".
The term "Lazarus" goes back to a biblical character, Lazarus of Bethany, who was famously resurrected by Jesus Christ according to the New Testament. Lazarus is notable for his return from the dead, symbolizing hope and faith in resurrection.
In Spanish literature, "Lazarillo" specifically refers to the main character of a famous picaresque novel titled "La vida de Lazarillo de Tormes y de sus fortunas y adversidades" (The Life of Lazarillo de Tormes and His Fortunes and Adversities). Written anonymously and published in 1554, this novel is one of the most significant works of Spanish literary history.