A Trilogia das Barcas (The Trilogy of the Ferries or The Trilogy of Ships, in English) is a series of one-act dramatic plays with allegorical characters by Portuguese playwright and poet Gil Vicente. Specialists classify them as morality plays even though they resemble more closely farces. They give a glimpse of the Lisboan society in the early 16th century. Act of the Ship of Hell The Act of the Ship of Hell, also known as Act of Morality (Auto da Barca do Inferno or "Auto da Moralidade", in Portuguese) is an allegorical play by Gil Vicente premiered in 1517. It is the first part of the Trilogy of the Ships. Despite the fact there are two ferries in the play, it's called "of the Ship of Hell" because this is the destination of most of its characters after the judgement around which it is centered. Characters The Angel, ferryman of the Ship of Heaven. The Devil, ferryman of the Ship of Hell. The Nobleman Sir Henry (Portuguese: Dom Henrique), who wears a cloak and brings along a squire carrying a heavy finely decorated chair (symbols of oppression, tyranny and pride). The Usurer, who carries a bag of coins to symbolize his greed and attachment to money. John Anthony (Portuguese: João Antão) the Shoemaker, a wealthy craftsman. He wears an apron and carries shoe molds, which symbolize the bourgeoisie exploitation. John (Portuguese: Joane), a fool who didn't give his own actions much thought. He doesn't bear any symbol, for he has done nothing in life by malice. He represents ingenuity and naïveté. The Friar and his mistress, Florença. He carries a sword, a shield, a helmet and a habit and also brings along his mistress. These elements are symbols of the clergy's involvement in worldly affairs. Madam Brísida Vaz, a procuress. Her baggage includes chests of spells and fake hymens, a cabinet, stolen goods, jewelry, a wardrobe, a wheeled house, a bed with dais and cushions and young girls. These elements represent exploitation of others and her means to and profits from it. Semifará, a usurer Jew. He brings along his goat - a symbol of rejection of the Christian faith and attachment to Judaism. The Corregidor and an Attorney, high functionaries in government. They bring with them books, paperwork and a stick. The Hanged Man, with the rope still around his neck representing his life of crimes and corruption. Four