Machado de Assis: a Literary Titan

Have you ever heard of Machado de Assis? If you're a fan of classic literature, you're missing out on one of the greatest minds Brazil has ever produced. Born into a mixed-race family in Rio de Janeiro in 1839, Assis overcame numerous obstacles, including poverty and prejudice, to become one of Brazil's most celebrated authors.

Despite his immense talent, Assis remained relatively unknown outside Brazil for many years. However, a recent resurgence of interest in his work is shining a new light on this literary giant.

Assis’s life was filled with both triumphs and challenges. His heritage meant he faced discrimination in a society deeply divided by race. Yet, he persevered, using his experiences to inform his writing and create some of the most complex and compelling characters in literature.

Beyond his acclaimed novels and short stories, Assis was a prolific critic, journalist, and poet. He was also a dedicated chess player, a member of the Academia Brasileira de Letras, and even served as its president. His involvement in Brazilian literary and cultural circles allowed him to engage with the intellectual currents of his time.

Assis’s works are characterized by their psychological depth, social commentary, and sharp wit. Some of his most famous works include:

• Dom Casmurro: A psychological exploration of jealousy, doubt, and the unreliability of memory.

• Quincas Borba: A novel that satirizes the human condition and the pursuit of happiness.

• Iaiá Garcia: A poignant story about a young woman's coming of age and the challenges she faces in a patriarchal society.

  
  

Assis’s characters are often flawed and complex, reflecting our unique nature. His ability to delve into the human psyche and expose the hidden motivations behind people’s actions is what sets him apart as a writer.

Machado de Assis's literary legacy continues to inspire and captivate readers worldwide. His work has been praised by renowned literary critics such as Harold Bloom, who hailed him as "one of the greatest novelists of all time."

Courtney Novak, an American writer and influencer, has been helping introduce Assis’s work to a new audience. Through her “Read Around the World” project she bumped into his work and with her videos on TikTok praising his books, she went as far as saying Dom Casmurro is the best book ever written, Novak has sparked a renewed interest in Brazilian literature. Her passion for Assis’s work is contagious, and she has demonstrated how classic literature can be relevant and exciting to different audiences.

Why You Should Read Machado de Assis

If you’re looking for a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant reading experience, look no further than the works of Machado de Assis. His writing is timeless and relevant, and his characters will stay with you long after you've turned the last page.

Photo: Unknown - Fundação Biblioteca Nacional