The Posthumous Memoirs of Brás Cubas

Content Warning: This section of the guide describes and discusses the novel’s depiction of ableism, enslavement, suicidal ideation, miscarriage, and domestic violence.

The deceased narrator, Brás Cubas, foresees a narrow audience for his autobiography due to its particular blend of humor and melancholy. While aspiring to connect with readers, he acknowledges that some might not resonate with the narrative’s diffuse nature.

Brás dies of pneumonia in 1869 at his estate in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Unmarried and childless, he dies in the company of his sister, Sabina; her daughter; and Virgília, his former lover. His funeral is unceremonious, with few attendees.

During his lifetime, Brás develops an anti-hypochondriac poultice. He invents it out of altruistic intent and personal ambition, though he is mainly driven by a longing for widespread recognition—a desire the narrator perceives as natural and inherently human.