Machado de Assis: The World Keeps Changing to Remain the Same

Machado de Assis is a Brazilian writer considered the greatest of Brazilian literature. This book explores his biography, times, and critical reception, examining his various personas and fictional prose. It includes an updated list of his works available in English translation and a selection of further critical studies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 276 pages
Publication date: 06 December 2022
Publisher: Boydell & Brewer Ltd

Machado de Assis (1839-1908) is widely regarded as one of the greatest writers in Brazilian literature and a global literary icon. Renowned figures such as Susan Sontag, Harold Bloom, John Updike, and Carlos Fuentes have hailed him as a master and a miracle. This comprehensive book offers a lively and accessible introduction to the life, times, and critical reception of Machado de Assis. It explores his diverse personas, including translator, poet, playwright, critic, cronista, short story writer, and novelist, with a particular focus on his fictional prose, which serves as a powerful vehicle for his sharp criticism of Brazilian society and his insightful portrayal of the human condition.

Throughout the book, the reader is guided through Machado's biography, covering key periods and events that shaped his life and work. It delves into his social and political context, including the Brazilian Empire and the challenges faced by the country during his lifetime. The critical reception of Machado's writings is also examined in depth, with a focus on his influence on Brazilian literature and his impact on other writers and artists across the world.

One of the book's notable features is its exploration of Machado's various personas. Each persona represents a different aspect of his artistic and intellectual life, and the book sheds light on how these personas interacted and influenced each other. For instance, the translator persona highlights Machado's dedication to bringing Brazilian literature to a wider audience, while the poet persona showcases his poetic prowess and his ability to capture the essence of Brazilian culture and society.

In addition to examining Machado's fictional prose, the book also provides a comprehensive list of his works available in English translation. This resource is invaluable for scholars, students, and readers who wish to explore Machado's rich literary legacy further. The list includes both his major works and lesser-known gems, allowing readers to delve into his diverse body of work and gain a deeper understanding of his artistic vision.

To complement the critical analysis, the book includes a selection of further critical studies that provide additional insights into Machado de Assis's life, work, and legacy. These studies are drawn from a range of academic disciplines, including literature, history, cultural studies, and sociology, and offer a multi-faceted perspective on his artistic achievements.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781855663626