Que clássicos não podemos deixar de ler? - Luiz Felipe Pondé

Summary

In this video script, the speaker discusses what makes a literary classic, emphasizing that classics are not simply outdated texts, but those that remain relevant and resonate across generations. They explore works from Brazilian authors like Machado de Assis and Nelson Rodrigues, highlighting themes of obsession, guilt, and societal contradictions. The speaker also delves into Russian literature, with Dostoevsky and Tolstoy's exploration of guilt, love, and moral redemption. Finally, Shakespeare’s works are discussed, showcasing the destructive power of envy and ambition. The message encourages readers to engage with these enduring works for a deeper understanding of humanity and society.

Takeaways

• 😀 The concept of 'classics' in literature is subjective, and there are multiple definitions, but generally refers to books that remain relevant and widely read across different time periods.
• 😀 Classics are often works that continue to speak to different generations and provide insight into human nature and history, as suggested by Italo Calvino's perspective on timeless books.
• 😀 In Brazilian literature, Machado de Assis is a quintessential example of a classic author, with works like 'Memórias Póstumas de Brás Cubas' and 'Dom Casmurro' being central.
• 😀 'Memórias Póstumas de Brás Cubas' is a classic due to its exploration of nihilism and the human condition, while 'Dom Casmurro' highlights the impact of obsessive love and doubt on perception and reality.
• 😀 Nelson Rodrigues is also considered a key figure in Brazilian literature, with his works challenging idealized views of life and revealing the darker truths behind human behavior.
• 😀 Rodrigues’ themes often involve the deception and psychological manipulation found within societal norms, such as the contradiction between public and private lives.
• 😀 Russian literature is highlighted, with Fyodor Dostoevsky’s 'Crime and Punishment' being noted for its deep exploration of guilt and moral responsibility.
• 😀 Dostoevsky’s work focuses on the psychological struggle of the protagonist, who grapples with the consequences of his actions and the realization of his moral responsibility.
• 😀 Tolstoy’s 'Anna Karenina' explores the destructive power of obsessive love and how it leads to personal and familial disintegration.
• 😀 Shakespeare's works, such as 'Othello' and 'Macbeth,' delve into themes like jealousy, ambition, and the personal destruction caused by these emotions, reflecting on human flaws and societal pressures.

Q & A

What is the speaker's definition of a 'classic' in literature?

The speaker defines a 'classic' as a book that remains relevant over time, being read and re-read. They suggest that classics are works that have something new to say to each generation and never truly finish offering insight.

How does the speaker feel about the debate surrounding what qualifies as a 'classic'?

The speaker does not engage in the debate about what makes a book a 'classic.' They dismiss discussions about classics being limited to certain authors or social contexts, choosing instead to focus on the lasting value and relevance of certain works.

Why does the speaker mention Italo Calvino in the context of 'classics'?

The speaker references Italo Calvino's idea of why we read classics, suggesting that these works resonate with readers across different times and contexts. Calvino’s perspective reinforces the notion that classics are timeless.

Which Brazilian authors does the speaker consider to be literary 'classics'?

The speaker mentions Machado de Assis, specifically citing works like 'Memórias Póstumas de Brás Cubas' and 'Dom Casmurro,' as essential Brazilian classics. They also mention Nelson Rodrigues, particularly for his portrayal of societal deception and desire.

What themes in 'Memórias Póstumas de Brás Cubas' are highlighted by the speaker?

The speaker highlights the theme of human misery and the nihilistic outlook in 'Memórias Póstumas de Brás Cubas,' particularly focusing on the protagonist's view of life, death, and legacy.

What is the significance of the obsessive nature in 'Dom Casmurro,' according to the speaker?

The speaker discusses the obsessive affective nature of the protagonist in 'Dom Casmurro.' The obsession with whether his wife has been unfaithful creates uncertainty, as the narrator’s perspective affects the reader's trust in the truth of the events.

How does the speaker describe Nelson Rodrigues' influence on literature?

The speaker credits Nelson Rodrigues with capturing the shift in societal behavior, particularly focusing on the hypocrisy and deception that became prevalent in Brazil during the 50s to 70s. Rodrigues' work highlights the false portrayal of desires and the darker aspects of human nature.

What Russian authors does the speaker consider to be 'classics,' and why?

The speaker mentions Fyodor Dostoevsky and Leo Tolstoy as important Russian authors. Dostoevsky is noted for exploring themes of guilt and morality, especially in 'Crime and Punishment.' Tolstoy’s 'Anna Karenina' is highlighted for its exploration of passion, self-destruction, and the consequences of obsessive love.

How does Dostoevsky’s 'Crime and Punishment' explore the theme of guilt?

The speaker refers to 'Crime and Punishment' as focusing on the moral reckoning of the protagonist, Raskolnikov, who experiences profound guilt for his crime. The novel delves into the psychological consequences of his actions, and the character's growth is tied to his realization of moral responsibility.

What does the speaker mean by 'The Brothers Karamazov' and its relevance to the concept of classics?

The speaker mentions 'The Brothers Karamazov' as another significant work by Dostoevsky, exploring deep philosophical and moral issues. The novel is part of the speaker’s broader discussion of works that have enduring relevance and continue to provoke thought.

How does the speaker interpret the themes in Shakespeare's plays like 'Othello' and 'Macbeth'?

The speaker discusses the themes of envy in 'Othello,' focusing on the destructive jealousy of Iago. In 'Macbeth,' they highlight the dangerous consequences of unchecked ambition and how the character fails to recognize the harm caused by his actions, reflecting on broader societal pressures of ambition.