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282
Novel • Fiction
Rio De Janeiro • 1850s
1899
Adult
16+ years
Dom Casmurro by Joaquim Maria Machado de Assis follows Bento Santiago as he reminisces about his life, focusing on his longtime love for Capitú, their marriage, and his suspicions of her affair with his close friend, Escobar, which culminates in jealousy, betrayal, and a shattered relationship. The novel's unreliable narration explores themes of trust and perception, solidifying its status as a classic of Brazilian literature. The source material features depictions of suicidal ideation and domestic violence, and it contains outdated, offensive terms to describe Black and Romani individuals.
Melancholic
Bittersweet
Nostalgic
Mysterious
Contemplative
Dom Casmurro by Joaquim Maria Machado de Assis is widely praised for its masterful narrative and psychological depth. Readers appreciate its intricate exploration of jealousy and unreliable narration. However, some find the pacing slow and the ambiguous ending unsatisfying. Overall, it remains a staple in Brazilian literature for its innovative style.
Readers who relish psychological depth, unreliable narrators, and intricate explorations of jealousy and memory will appreciate Dom Casmurro by Joaquim Maria Machado de Assis. Fans of Nabokov's Lolita or Fowles' The Magus will find this Brazilian classic compelling and thought-provoking.
Capitú
Bento's childhood friend and wife, Capitú is portrayed as a curious and intelligent woman whose actions and intentions are frequently misjudged. Her relationship with Bento is fraught with complexity, marked by her determination and adaptability to challenging circumstances.
Escobar
Bento’s closest friend, Escobar is an important figure in Bento's life from their time at the seminary through adulthood. His amiable nature and deep ties to Bento’s family create a significant bond, although perceptions of him vary among characters.
Sancha
Capitú’s childhood friend and later Escobar’s wife, Sancha forms a close connection with Bento and Capitú. She participates actively in their shared social life, and her marriage to Escobar is characterized by harmony before his untimely death.
Ezekiel
Ezekiel is the son of Bento and Capitú, whose childhood demeanor reflects his mother’s traits. His growing resemblance to Escobar generates tension and uncertainty in his relationship with Bento as he matures.
282
Novel • Fiction
Rio De Janeiro • 1850s
1899
Adult
16+ years
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