Camilo Castelo Branco
Suicida
"Suicida" by Camilo Castelo Branco is a poignant novel written in the late 19th century. The book delves into the theme of suicide, exploring the complex emotions surrounding loss, despair, and the human condition through the lens of a tragic figure. It reflects the societal pressures and personal struggles faced by the protagonist, who ultimately succumbs to the darkness of their circumstances. The narrative centers around Elisa Loeve-Weimar, a woman of remarkable beauty and talent who experiences devastating losses throughout her life, including the deaths of her beloved children and the collapse of her marriage to José Joaquim Gonçalves Basto. As she grapples with her fading dreams and mental deterioration, Elisa's journey reveals the depths of her despair and the societal neglect of those in emotional pain. Ultimately, faced with the agonizing reality of her life and believing she is condemned to misery, she takes her own life, leaving behind a reflection on the tragic consequences of despair and unfulfilled potential, all while intertwining with the author's broader commentary on love, loss, and societal indifference.