MEMÓRIAS PÓSTUMAS - RESUMO E ANÁLISE Prof. Dra em Literatura pela USP

Summary

This video delves into the Brazilian literary classic 'Memórias Póstumas de Brás Cubas' by Machado de Assis. It discusses the book's significance, its unique narrative structure resembling chronicles, and its realist approach contrasting with romanticism. The video highlights the author's innovative style, societal commentary, and the protagonist's pursuit of glory, which leads to various relationships and eventual disillusionment. It concludes by emphasizing Machado's literary complexity and the book's enduring relevance, encouraging viewers to explore his works for a deeper understanding of Brazilian literature.

Takeaways

• 📚 The video discusses 'Memórias Póstumas de Brás Cubas' by Machado de Assis, a significant work in Brazilian literature.
• 🎓 The speaker has a deep connection with Machado's work, having studied it extensively during their master's degree.
• 🔤 The title 'Memórias Póstumas' plays with the double meaning of 'posthumous' (after death) and 'posthumous' (after the earth), reflecting the book's theme of memories from beyond the grave.
• 📖 The book was originally published in installments in the 'Revista Brasileira' in 1880, which influenced its episodic structure.
• 🗣️ The narrative is unique, with the protagonist, Brás Cubas, narrating his own story from the grave, providing a first-person account of his life and society.
• 🏙️ The video highlights how the book's themes mirror the societal changes of the time, including urbanization and the questioning of traditional customs.
• 💔 Brás Cubas' life is marked by unfulfilled ambitions and relationships, reflecting the broader human condition of seeking glory and meaning.
• 🏛️ The book critiques the romanticized view of life, opting for a realistic portrayal that includes the less flattering aspects of characters and society.
• 📈 The video mentions the book's innovative narrative techniques, such as chapters with only names and punctuation, breaking from traditional storytelling.
• 🔮 The character Quincas Borba introduces the concept of 'humanitismo', a satirical take on the philosophical movements of the time, including positivism.
• 💬 The video concludes by emphasizing the importance of reading and re-reading Machado de Assis to fully appreciate the depth and complexity of his writing.

Q & A

What is the title of the book discussed in the script?

The title of the book discussed is 'Memórias Póstumas de Brás Cubas' by Machado de Assis.

Why is 'Memórias Póstumas de Brás Cubas' considered an important book in Brazilian literature?

It is considered important because it is one of Machado de Assis's first books that introduces a modern narrative style, breaks from romanticism, and reflects the societal changes of the time through its realistic approach.

What is the significance of the title 'Memórias Póstumas de Brás Cubas'?

The title signifies 'Posthumous Memoirs of Brás Cubas', indicating that the memoirs are of someone who has died, reflecting the book's exploration of themes related to life, death, and legacy.

How does the book's structure with short chapters influence the reading experience?

The structure with short chapters adds agility to the reading experience, making it more accessible and engaging for readers, and reflecting the serialized publication style of the time.

What is the role of the character Quincas Borba in the book?

Quincas Borba is a significant character who represents a philosophical stance called 'humanitismo', which is a satire on the positivist movements of the time, and his character evolves to become central in another book by Machado de Assis.

Why does Brás Cubas's father send him to Portugal?

Brás Cubas's father sends him to Portugal to study law in Coimbra after discovering his relationship with a prostitute, Marcela, in an attempt to redirect his life towards more respectable paths.

What is the significance of the character Virgínia in Brás Cubas's life?

Virgínia is significant as she becomes Brás Cubas's lover after his failed marriage proposal to another woman, and their affair becomes a central plot point, reflecting the societal norms and personal desires of the time.

How does the character Brás Cubas view his own life at the end of the book?

Brás Cubas reflects on his life with a sense of irony, acknowledging that despite not achieving the societal glory he sought, he lived without having to work and did not pass on the 'legacy of our misery' to any offspring.

What is the significance of the book's dedication to the worms that will eat Brás Cubas's flesh?

The dedication is a satirical and provocative way to open the book, challenging societal norms and expectations, and setting the tone for the author's exploration of life, death, and the human condition.

What does the book suggest about the nature of success and societal expectations?

The book suggests that societal expectations of success can be unfulfilling and that a life without achieving conventional 'glory' can still be seen as having a positive balance, especially in not passing on the 'legacy of our misery'.