Helena - resumo - Machado de Assis

Summary

In this insightful review, the narrator discusses *Helena* by Machado de Assis, focusing on its complex themes of love, family, and societal expectations. The novel centers around Helena, an orphaned girl discovered to be the illegitimate daughter of a counselor, and the emotional turmoil she faces within her new family. The story explores the incestuous feelings that develop between Helena and her brother Estácio, creating a tragic love triangle. The narrator reflects on the book's exploration of social and psychological issues, highlighting its timeless relevance and appeal, particularly for those interested in understanding the nuances of love, affection, and moral dilemmas.

Takeaways

• 😀 Fabiano Futebol introduces the book *Helena* by Machado de Assis, highlighting its themes and key plot points.
• 😀 The story begins with the death of a counselor in 1850, who leaves behind a complex will, including the revelation of an unrecognized daughter, Helena.
• 😀 Estácio, the son of the counselor, is tasked with providing for Helena, his half-sister, and welcoming her into the family.
• 😀 Helena, an orphan who is initially resisted by the household, gradually wins the affection of the family with her kindness and talents.
• 😀 Estácio begins to develop romantic feelings for Helena, which he initially rejects, seeing her as his sister, causing internal conflict and jealousy.
• 😀 Helena's visits to a poor elderly man named Salvador lead to the discovery of her true parentage and the revelation that she is not Estácio's biological sister.
• 😀 The relationship between Estácio and Helena grows more complicated as they both struggle with their feelings, societal expectations, and the implications of incestuous love.
• 😀 The book explores the social and psychological consequences of Helena’s status as an unrecognized daughter and the eventual romantic tensions between her and Estácio.
• 😀 Despite growing closer, Helena and Estácio cannot be together due to societal taboos, and the book ends with a tragic resolution where neither Estácio nor Helena end up with each other or Mendonça.
• 😀 *Helena* is a profound exploration of love, affection, and social constraints, with themes that are still relevant today, including family, identity, and societal judgment.

Q & A

What is the main plot of the book 'Helena' by Machado de Assis?

The story of 'Helena' begins with the death of a counselor who leaves a will that includes his unacknowledged daughter, Helena. The plot revolves around Helena's integration into her half-brother Estácio's family and the complex emotions, including an incestuous love, that develop between them. It explores themes of social class, identity, and forbidden love, ending in a tragic conclusion.

What role does Estácio play in the story?

Estácio, the son of the counselor, becomes the provider of the family fortune and is tasked with bringing Helena into the family. As the story progresses, Estácio develops feelings of love for Helena, though he initially struggles to accept these feelings due to their familial connection.

Why does Estácio begin to feel jealousy towards Helena?

Estácio feels jealousy because he notices that Helena spends a lot of time away from the house, visiting a mysterious elderly person. His suspicions grow, and he becomes upset when he realizes she is forming attachments outside their family.

What is the significance of the character Mendonça in the story?

Mendonça is Estácio's best friend, who also falls in love with Helena. His affection for her causes tension between him and Estácio, who unconsciously tries to block Mendonça's pursuit of Helena. Mendonça's role highlights the love triangle and the emotional complexity in the relationships between the characters.

What is the central theme of the book 'Helena'?

The central theme of 'Helena' is the exploration of forbidden love, particularly an incestuous love between a brother and sister who were unaware of their familial bond. The novel also touches on social class, identity, and the psychological consequences of these complex emotions.

How does Helena cope with her situation in the story?

Helena, despite her tragic circumstances, remains a kind and talented individual. She tries to demonstrate her affection for the family and gradually earns their acceptance. However, she also faces inner turmoil and emotional struggles, especially as she realizes the taboo nature of her love for Estácio.

Why does Estácio initially reject his feelings for Helena?

Estácio rejects his feelings for Helena because he believes they are siblings, which makes the romantic emotions he feels for her socially and morally unacceptable. He struggles with guilt and confusion, not understanding the nature of his feelings until later in the story.

What role does the local priest play in the story?

The local priest, Father Marchió, serves as a guiding figure for Estácio, helping him come to terms with his feelings for Helena. It is through the priest’s influence that Estácio eventually understands that his love for Helena is romantic, rather than a sibling bond.

What is the significance of the character Salvador Ikea in the story?

Salvador Ikea, who lives in isolation in the forest, is revealed to be Helena's biological father. His backstory plays a critical role in the resolution of the mystery surrounding Helena's parentage and helps Estácio understand the complicated family dynamics, ultimately contributing to the tragic ending.

How does the story of 'Helena' relate to societal issues of the time?

The novel addresses complex social and psychological issues, particularly around identity, class, and family. It critiques the societal norms of the time, including the stigma of illegitimacy and the dangers of social taboos, highlighting how these issues can lead to personal and societal conflict. The themes also resonate in modern society, making it a timeless narrative.