QUINCAS BORBA - Profa. Dra em Literatura pela USP, MIRIAM BEVILACQUA

Summary

This video discusses the novel *Quincas Borba* by Machado de Assis, focusing on its key themes and characters. The narrator explores the humanistic philosophy of the character Quincas Borba and its impact on the story. It also highlights the protagonist Rubião, his inheritance, and his relationships with others, especially the manipulative Palha and his wife Sofia. The story reveals the darker, more ironic sides of human nature, characteristic of Machado de Assis' realist phase. The video encourages a deeper understanding of the narrative layers and themes, ideal for those preparing for exams on the novel.

Takeaways

• 😀 The video begins with a thank-you message to Bianca, who excelled in literature for the USP entrance exam after watching the videos on the channel.
• 😀 The main character, Quincas Borba, appears in both this novel and Machado de Assis' previous work 'Memórias Póstumas de Brás Cubas'.
• 😀 Quincas Borba created a philosophy called 'Humanitism' or 'Humanitas,' which plays a significant role in the novel and offers insight into his character.
• 😀 Quincas Borba, despite being poor and homeless in 'Memórias Póstumas', inherits a fortune and leaves it all to his friend Rubião, with the condition that Rubião take care of his dog.
• 😀 The novel shifts focus from Quincas Borba's life to Rubião's new life as a wealthy man after inheriting Quincas Borba's estate.
• 😀 Machado de Assis' use of a narrator who frequently interacts with the reader is a key feature of the novel, reflecting his background in writing chronicles.
• 😀 A central theme in 'Quincas Borba' is the idea of 'humanitas'—the survival of one group at the expense of another, illustrated by a story about two tribes fighting for food.
• 😀 The phrase 'To the victor, the potatoes' becomes an iconic quote from the novel, encapsulating Quincas Borba's philosophy of survival and sacrifice.
• 😀 Rubião, after inheriting Quincas Borba's wealth, is exploited by others, especially the manipulative Palha family, who take advantage of his naivety.
• 😀 As Rubião's mental state deteriorates, he is eventually institutionalized by Palha, and the story ends with Rubião's death, illustrating the cyclical nature of life and survival in society.
• 😀 The novel is a key example of Machado de Assis' realist phase, exploring human flaws and societal issues with irony, and critiques of the social and economic structures of the time.

Q & A

What is the significance of the character Quincas Borba in Machado de Assis's works?

Quincas Borba is a significant character in Machado de Assis's works, appearing not only in the novel 'Quincas Borba' but also in 'Memórias Póstumas de Brás Cubas'. He is portrayed as a philosopher who creates a philosophy called Humanitism, which emphasizes that the survival of one life may depend on the destruction of another.

What is the philosophy created by Quincas Borba, and how does it relate to the story?

The philosophy created by Quincas Borba is called Humanitism, which suggests that the survival of one life necessitates the destruction of another. This is illustrated in the novel with the example of two tribes fighting over a limited food supply, where the survival of one tribe depends on the death of the other. The phrase 'To the Victor, the Potatoes' encapsulates this idea.

How does the death of Quincas Borba affect the life of Rubião?

After Quincas Borba's death, his friend Rubião inherits all of his wealth, which significantly changes Rubião's life. He moves to a luxurious house in Botafogo and begins associating with wealthy people, though his newfound fortune leads to his eventual downfall due to his naivety and the exploitation by those around him.

Why does the novel start with Quincas Borba already being dead, and what is the focus of the story?

The novel begins with Quincas Borba's death to focus on the aftermath, particularly the life of his heir, Rubião. The story shifts to Rubião's life as a wealthy man, exploring the challenges and delusions he faces after inheriting Quincas Borba's fortune. The novel is less about Quincas Borba’s life and more about Rubião’s transformation and decline.

What role does the dog named Quincas Borba play in the novel?

The dog named Quincas Borba plays an important symbolic role in the story. It acts as a reminder of its original owner, Quincas Borba, and accompanies Rubião throughout his journey. The dog's presence highlights the idea of the perpetuation of Quincas Borba’s legacy, even after his death.

How does the novel illustrate the theme of social manipulation and exploitation?

The novel portrays social manipulation and exploitation through characters like Palha and Sofia, who take advantage of Rubião's naivety and wealth. Palha, in particular, exploits Rubião by getting him involved in bad business deals and taking control of his fortune, all while feigning friendship and concern.

How does Rubião’s obsession with Sofia affect his actions in the novel?

Rubião’s obsession with Sofia clouds his judgment and leads him to make poor decisions. Despite being manipulated by Sofia and her husband, Palha, Rubião remains infatuated with Sofia, which prevents him from seeing their true intentions. His obsession ultimately contributes to his mental deterioration.

What is the significance of the phrase 'To the Victor, the Potatoes' in the novel?

'To the Victor, the Potatoes' is a central phrase in the novel that encapsulates the philosophy of Humanitism. It reflects the idea that in a world of limited resources, the survival of one group requires the destruction or defeat of another. The phrase highlights the moral ambiguity and the harsh realities of the world as seen through Quincas Borba’s eyes.

How does Machado de Assis use irony in 'Quincas Borba'?

Machado de Assis employs irony throughout 'Quincas Borba' to expose the flaws and contradictions in society and human nature. The story of Rubião, his rise to wealth, and his eventual downfall are all infused with irony. The novel mocks the social ambitions and superficiality of its characters, especially through the lens of Rubião’s misguided actions and delusions.

What is the role of the narrator in 'Quincas Borba'?

The narrator in 'Quincas Borba' serves as a conversational guide for the reader, often addressing the reader directly and offering insights into the characters and events. The narrator's tone is ironic and reflects the author's critique of society. This narrative style, common in Machado de Assis's works, allows the author to blend humor, satire, and social commentary.