Don Rodrigo is a fictional character from the novel "The Betrothed" (I Promessi Sposi) written by Italian author Alessandro Manzoni. He is portrayed as a wealthy and powerful nobleman who uses his influence to pursue his desires, particularly in his obsession with Lucia, a young peasant girl. His character embodies the themes of tyranny and moral corruption. Throughout the story, Don Rodrigo's actions lead to significant conflict and suffering for the protagonists, Renzo and Lucia. His relentless pursuit of Lucia ultimately sets off a chain of events that highlights the struggles between the upper and lower classes in 17th-century Italy.