Resumo - Dom Casmurro, de Machado de Assis

Summary

The script follows the life of Bentinho, also known as Dom Casmurro, a reclusive man who recounts his past in an attempt to understand his life and the mystery surrounding his relationships. It explores his childhood, his love for Capitu, suspicions of infidelity, and the eventual tragedy that haunts him. Despite their love, Bentinho's jealousy and doubts about Capitu's loyalty lead to irreversible consequences. The story delves into themes of love, betrayal, and the fragility of human emotions, concluding with Dom Casmurro's reflection on his life, filled with regret and unresolved mysteries.

Takeaways

• 😀 The protagonist of the story is Dom Casmurro, whose real name is Bentinho, and he narrates his past and life experiences.
• 😀 Bentinho was initially called 'Dom Casmurro' by a poet because of his withdrawn and stubborn personality.
• 😀 Dom Casmurro reflects on his past with melancholy, as his family is gone, and his only attempt at happiness—rebuilding his childhood home—failed.
• 😀 The story begins with Bentinho recalling his childhood obsession with Capitu, the daughter of Senhor Pádua, and the intense bond they shared.
• 😀 Bentinho and Capitu's relationship faces challenges, including suspicions of betrayal, especially after Bentinho's friend Escobar enters the picture.
• 😀 Escobar becomes a close friend of Bentinho and, despite his own lack of vocation for the priesthood, helps Bentinho to abandon the seminary to marry Capitu.
• 😀 Bentinho returns home after leaving the seminary and eventually marries Capitu, but their life together becomes complicated due to jealousy and doubts about their child, Ezequiel.
• 😀 Bentinho becomes obsessed with the idea that Capitu had an affair with Escobar, believing that their son Ezequiel resembles Escobar in too many ways.
• 😀 Bentinho's jealousy and suspicion grow to the point where he contemplates murder, almost poisoning his son, Ezequiel, but is interrupted at the last moment.
• 😀 In the end, Bentinho lives alone, haunted by the mysteries of his past and the unanswered questions surrounding Capitu, Escobar, and their son. He remains consumed by his doubts and regrets.

Q & A

What is the origin of the protagonist's nickname 'Dom Casmurro'?

The protagonist, Bentinho, is given the nickname 'Dom Casmurro' after a train journey where a poet recites works to him. Due to his tiredness, Bentinho falls asleep, and the poet refers to him as 'Dom Casmurro,' meaning someone stubborn and withdrawn. Bentinho adopts the nickname because he likes it.

Why does Bentinho live a reclusive life?

Bentinho lives a reclusive life because his family has died, and his attempt to bring happiness by rebuilding his childhood home failed. He is left feeling isolated and detached from the world.

What event prompts Bentinho to begin writing his memoir?

Bentinho begins writing his memoir after overhearing a conversation between his mother, Dona Glória, his uncle Cosme, and the family member José Dias, which reveals the discussions about his relationship with Capitu, marking a turning point in his life.

How does Bentinho feel about Capitu when they first meet?

Bentinho feels an intense passion for Capitu, describing her eyes as having the mesmerizing quality of 'oil of the tide,' similar to the pull of the ocean. Their interactions are fueled by deep affection and mutual attraction.

What role does José Dias play in Bentinho's life?

José Dias serves as a manipulative figure in Bentinho's life. He comments on Capitu's supposed deviousness and tries to influence Bentinho’s views on her. His presence contributes to the growing distrust between Bentinho and Capitu.

How does Bentinho’s time in the seminary affect his relationship with Capitu?

Bentinho’s time at the seminary creates distance between him and Capitu. He struggles with jealousy and longing, and despite his absence, José Dias’ negative comments about Capitu fuel his doubts about her fidelity.

What does Escobar’s friendship with Bentinho reveal about Bentinho’s feelings for Capitu?

Escobar’s friendship with Bentinho plays a key role in Bentinho’s growing suspicions. When Bentinho notices Escobar’s closeness to Capitu, he begins to question whether his wife is unfaithful, reflecting his deep insecurities and jealousy.

How does the birth of Ezequiel influence Bentinho’s view of his relationship with Capitu?

Bentinho becomes increasingly suspicious of Capitu's fidelity when their son, Ezequiel, resembles Escobar in both appearance and mannerisms. Bentinho's jealousy and paranoia intensify, leading him to doubt his son’s paternity.

What tragic event causes Bentinho to lose his trust in Capitu completely?

Bentinho’s trust in Capitu is shattered when Escobar dies tragically in a drowning accident. At the funeral, Bentinho notices the way Capitu gazes at the deceased, which confirms his suspicions of an affair between her and Escobar.

How does the story end, and what is the ultimate fate of Bentinho and Capitu?

The story ends with Bentinho, now living as Dom Casmurro, still consumed by his unresolved jealousy and suspicions. Capitu dies, and their son, Ezequiel, grows up, continuing to visit Bentinho until his own death from typhoid fever. Bentinho remains alone, reflecting on the mysteries of life and his choices.