  We present results of a long-slit spectroscopic study of 39 active and 3
normal galaxies. Stellar absorption features, continuum colors and their radial
variations are analyzed in an effort to characterize the stellar population in
these galaxies and detect the presence of a featureless continuum underlying
the starlight spectral component. Spatial variations of the equivalent widths
of conspicuous absorption lines and continuum colors are detected in most
galaxies. Star-forming rings, in particular, leave clear fingerprints in the
equivalent widths and color profiles. We find that the stellar populations in
the inner regions of active galaxies present a variety of characteristics, and
cannot be represented by a single starlight template. Dilution of the stellar
lines by an underlying featureless continuum is detected in most broad-lined
objects, but little or no dilution is found for the most of the 20 type 2
Seyferts in the sample. Color gradients are also ubiquitous. In particular, all
but one of the observed Seyfert 2s are redder at the nucleus than in its
immediate vicinity. Possible consequences of these findings are outlined.
