Set in the idyll of an Andalusian village in feudal times, this is the story of one woman's struggle for self-realisation. A tragedy of passions, it traces Yerma's frustrations and discontent with her new husband who loves and respects her but denies her sexual fulfilment, motherhood and a share in his life. All her attempts at seduction are thwarted till finally she begins to move away from him and seek solitude amongst friends. Juan cannot understand, or match the depths of her passion until it is too late.