Common Lines in the Ruy Lopez

By Edward Scimia, About.com Guide

The Morphy Defense (3. ... a6) is by far Black's most popular third move in the Ruy Lopez. It immediately puts the question to White's bishop, and after 4. Ba4, Black may choose to break the pin on his knight by playing b5.

There are several common variations that arise from the Morphy Defense, some of which follow.