n the story “Lather and Nothing Else” by Hernando Téllez, Captain Torres is the villain, due the fact the he is an executioner, enjoys killing rebels, and is incredibly powerful. Firstly, Captain Torres is the villain because he is a cruel murderer that kills civilians solely because he does not like them and they share different views, similar to the Nazis. This is shown when Captain Torres says, “Some of them we brought back dead ; others are still alive. But they’ll all be dead soon.” (Téllez 182). This quote demonstrates that he is a ruthless villain ready to punish and execute renegades for his political gain. Next, Captain Torres is the villain because he enjoys killing revolutionaries. This is shown when he replies to the barber’s question about what his plans are by saying, “I’m not sure yet. But we’ll have a good time.” (Téllez 183). This shows that he is an emotionless monster that takes pride in his work and even enjoys his occupation. Lastly, Captain Torres is the villain of the story because he is highly powerful. He has warriors who will do as informed, therefore giving Captain Torres the power of life and death. His soldiers pursue and execute revolutionaries, and would go as far as murdering the barber if he told them so. The barber cited how, “He ordered the whole town to file into the patio of the school to see four rebels hanging there.” (Téllez 182). This quote displays how the executioner used his authority to command the entire municipality to view the deceased renegades. To conclude, Captain Torres is the villain in the story “Lather and Nothing Else” because of his employment, enjoyment of murder, and power.