A Causa Secreta (Machado de Assis) | Análise

Summary

In this video, Lao Pacheco delves into the short story *A Causa Secreta* by Machado de Assis, analyzing its key characters and the distinct writing style of the author. The story revolves around the mysterious and unsettling character of Fortunato, whose sadistic tendencies are revealed as he tortures animals and enjoys the suffering of others. The analysis highlights the psychological depth of the characters, particularly the emotional turmoil of Garcia and Maria Luísa. Pacheco discusses the story’s non-linear narrative, Machado de Assis's innovative narrative style, and the potential deeper interpretations of the story's secret cause.

Takeaways

• 😀 Machado de Assis is a pivotal figure in Brazilian literature, often associated with Realism, but his work transcends conventional literary categories.
• 😀 'A Causa Secreta' is a short but captivating short story by Machado de Assis, featuring three key characters: Maria Luísa, Garcia, and Fortunato.
• 😀 Fortunato, a middle-aged man, exhibits a peculiar interest in caring for the sick and injured, but his obsession goes beyond medicine and into darker realms.
• 😀 Maria Luísa is portrayed as a tense character who seems constantly anxious and fearful of her husband, Fortunato, despite her beauty and gentle nature.
• 😀 Garcia, the narrator of the story, is highly observant and analytical, providing insight into the characters and their behaviors, particularly Fortunato.
• 😀 The story's narration is in the third person omniscient, and the narrator often breaks the fourth wall to engage the reader, a hallmark of Machado de Assis's style.
• 😀 The story begins with an unexpected narrative structure, revealing that the characters are dead, and the events unfold through a non-linear sequence of flashbacks.
• 😀 The 'secret cause' of the story is revealed through Garcia's growing realization that Fortunato is a sadistic individual who finds pleasure in the suffering of others.
• 😀 Fortunato's fascination with suffering is shown through his treatment of rats and his indifferent behavior when others are in pain, reflecting a deeper, darker aspect of his personality.
• 😀 The tragic ending involves Maria Luísa's death, with Fortunato finding pleasure not only in her physical death but also in Garcia's emotional suffering over their unconsummated love.

Q & A

Who is Machado de Assis, and why is he so significant in Brazilian literature?

Machado de Assis is one of Brazil's most revered literary figures, known for his contributions to Realism. His works have a deep exploration of human nature, and his innovative narrative style, such as the use of third-person omniscient narration with a direct connection to the reader, set him apart. He is highly acclaimed for his ability to represent the complexities of Brazilian society and his influence on modern literature.

What literary movement does Machado de Assis belong to, and how did it shape his writing?

Machado de Assis is associated with the Realist literary movement, which was influenced by the rise of scientific thought and the focus on observation and reason in the late 19th century. While his works align with Realism, Machado developed a unique style that often defies simple categorization, using irony, psychological depth, and an innovative narrative structure.

What is the plot of Machado de Assis's story 'A Causa Secreta' (The Secret Cause)?

'A Causa Secreta' revolves around three main characters: Maria Luísa, Garcia, and Fortunato. Fortunato, a middle-aged man with an unusual obsession with suffering and sickness, becomes friends with Garcia, a medical student. The story examines Fortunato's sadistic tendencies and his eerie fascination with pain, which is revealed as the 'secret cause' of his behavior, culminating in Maria Luísa's death.

What is the significance of the third-person omniscient narrator in 'A Causa Secreta'?

The third-person omniscient narrator in 'A Causa Secreta' allows the story to unfold from a broader perspective, offering insights into the characters' inner lives and motivations. This type of narration, typical of Machado de Assis, creates a sense of intimacy with the reader while also providing an objective view of the events. It adds layers to the story, especially with the narrator’s subtle interactions with the audience.

How does Machado de Assis use digression in the story, and what is its effect?

Machado de Assis uses digression in 'A Causa Secreta' by not following a traditional linear narrative. Instead, the story begins with a scene that introduces death and then flashes back to explain the events leading to it. This non-linear structure builds suspense and engages the reader by revealing important details out of sequence, encouraging a deeper reexamination of the story.

Why does Maria Luísa appear tense and anxious throughout the story?

Maria Luísa's tension and anxiety stem from her discomfort with her husband's behavior. She seems disturbed by his strange obsession with death and suffering, particularly when he tortures animals, which causes her emotional distress. Her passivity and fear are key traits, reflecting the oppressive atmosphere created by Fortunato’s sadistic tendencies.

What role does Garcia play in the story, and how does he interact with Fortunato and Maria Luísa?

Garcia, a medical student and neighbor, serves as the story's observer and foil to Fortunato. He initially helps care for an injured person with Fortunato, but later grows suspicious of his friend's behavior. Garcia's role is to analyze and confront Fortunato, and he also seems to develop a romantic interest in Maria Luísa, further complicating the dynamics between the characters.

How does the concept of suffering play a central role in 'A Causa Secreta'?

Suffering is central to the story, particularly in the character of Fortunato, who finds pleasure in observing pain and misery. His sadistic nature is revealed through his actions, such as torturing animals and showing little concern for human life, except when it involves suffering. This obsession with suffering drives much of the plot and highlights the darker aspects of the human condition.

What is the 'secret cause' revealed at the end of the story?

The 'secret cause' is Fortunato's sadism. While he appears to care for others, particularly in his medical and caregiving role, it is revealed that he takes pleasure in the suffering of others, especially when he can manipulate or witness emotional and physical pain. His actions culminate in the death of Maria Luísa, further exposing his true nature.

How does the ending of 'A Causa Secreta' add to the psychological depth of the story?

The ending of 'A Causa Secreta' is unsettling as it shows Garcia, devastated by Maria Luísa's death, expressing his grief. However, Fortunato finds satisfaction in Garcia’s emotional pain, savoring his moral anguish. This ending underscores the theme of sadism and human suffering, revealing the dark psychological complexity of the characters and leaving a lingering impact on the reader.