Vicente Blasco Ibáñez is an outstanding Spanish writer whose novels were widely read in Russia at the beginning of the 20th century. Bullfighting, a dazzling matador, Spanish flair—this is "Blood and Sand." The famous torero Juan Gallardo, who rose from humble origins, is at the peak of his fame. The crowd explodes with applause as he skillfully dodges the bull's horns and taunts the enraged animal. Every fight could be his last, and this thought haunts the hero.... Fate brings Gallardo together with the flighty aristocrat Doña Sol. The matador is consumed by the desire to possess this woman and enter high society. But bullfighting is a struggle against destiny. The bull gores Gallardo. After a defeat, it is difficult to return to the arena—especially if the bull now inspires fear, and the crowd whistles at their former favorite for showing caution.