Subject
Brazilian fiction -- 19th century Books
Best books
José Martiniano de Alencar
O Guarany: romance brazileiro, Vol. 1 (of 2)
"O Guarany: romance brazileiro, Vol. 1 (of 2)" by José Martiniano de Alencar is a novel published in 1857. Set in 1604 colonial Brazil, it follows Peri, a Goitacá Indian who has devoted himself to protecting Cecília, the daughter of Portuguese nobleman Dom Antônio de Mariz. When the dangerous adventurer Loredano arrives at the family's remote castle-like home, he begins plotting to kidnap Cecília and overthrow the household. A foundational text of Brazilian Romanticism, the novel blends adventure, Gothic elements, and themes of freedom and indigenous identity.
José Martiniano de Alencar
A Pata da Gazella: romance brasileiro.
"A Pata da Gazella: romance brasileiro" by José Martiniano de Alencar is a novel first published in 1870. Set in Rio de Janeiro, it tells the story of two young men competing for the affections of Amélia, a businessman's daughter. Wealthy Horacio becomes obsessed with her supposedly beautiful feet after finding her shoe, while hardworking Leopoldo loves her character and spirit. When both men believe she has a deformed foot, their contrasting reactions reveal their true natures in this ironic reversal of the Cinderella tale.
Machado de Assis
Helena
"Helena" by Machado de Assis is a novel published in 1876. When Counselor Vale dies, his will reveals a shocking secret: he has a daughter named Helena whom his family never knew existed. As Helena enters their home, she wins over her half-brother Estácio and aunt Dona Úrsula with her grace and charm. But as Estácio grows increasingly attached to his new sister, forbidden feelings emerge that threaten to destroy them both—especially when Helena's own mysterious past begins to surface.
José Martiniano de Alencar
O Guarany: romance brazileiro, Vol. 2 (of 2)
"O Guarany: romance brazileiro, Vol. 2 (of 2)" by José Martiniano de Alencar is a Brazilian novel first published in 1857. Set in 1604 colonial Brazil, it follows Peri, a noble indigenous Goitacá warrior who serves a Portuguese family living in a remote castle-like settlement. When the adventurer Loredano infiltrates the household and plots to kidnap the lord's daughter Cecília, whom Peri devotedly protects, tensions escalate. This foundational Romantic work blends adventure, violence, and eroticism while exploring themes of freedom, indigenous identity, and Brazilian independence.
Bernardo Guimarães
A escrava Isaura : $b romance
"A Escrava Isaura: romance" by Bernardo Guimarães is a novel written and published in 1875. Set during Brazil's abolitionist campaign, the story follows Isaura, a white-skinned, educated slave of noble character who suffers under a cruel master. The novel explores the extremes of Brazil's slave system through its heroine's struggles, featuring the classic romantic triangle of virtuous heroine, villainous owner, and noble rescuer. This sentimental tale became a major editorial success that captured public imagination during the fight against slavery.
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