In Lazarillo de Tormes, the anonymous author narrates an autobiography that highlights the underlying views of a society of false virtues. According to a psychologist by the name Maslow, individuals have a "hierarchy of needs- whereas basic needs must be met before the more abstract ones are considered. Accordingly, in Lazarillo de Tormes, each character is governed by their basic needs of survival through food and acceptance through status. Thus, in Lazarillo's society, those needs replace the virtues, as they falsely portray love, sanctity, and honor. .
The protagonist, Lázaro, is motivated throughout his journeys by the need to feed himself. While living with his mother, she becomes intimate with another man who Lázaro was not partial to until, he states, " as soon as I realized that his visits meant better food for us, I grew to like him (p.7)-. This man, Zaid, also provided their home with the firewood that kept them warm throughout the winter. As time progresses, he is sent to a blind beggar that can better provide him with food and shelter. However, it is apparent that the only way to obtain sustenance is through thievery. Instead of searching for affection and love in Lázaro's master, he searches for any possible way to solve his hunger pains. Soon after the blind man abuses Lázaro enough, he departs and finds himself with a priest. As it is viewed in the many religions, bread is received to represent the love of Jesus Christ although; Lázaro worships it solely as his only source of food: "It seemed to me that, even if I didn't have access to them, the sight of them would have consoled me (31)."" Just observing this bread comforted Lázaro more than the presence of someone who esteemed him. Continuing on, he is employed by a nobleman. Seemingly more affectionate towards him, Lázaro eagerly anticipates food due to what his new master's costume of wealth denotes.
