Resurrection

The first novel by Machado de Assis explores themes such as marriage, memory, and perspective, and is translated by Karen Sherwood Sotelino with an introduction by José Luiz Passos. It reveals the author's early experiment in drawing out psychological and sociological issues of his times, following the progression of infatuation, passion, doubt, and toxic jealousy experienced by the protagonists Félix and Lívia in 19th-century Rio de Janeiro.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 162 pages
Publication date: 12 May 2022
Publisher: Dalkey Archive Press

Machado de Assis' debut novel delves into profound themes that the author intricately explored throughout his illustrious career, encompassing the realms of marriage, memory, and perspective. Through the insightful translation by Karen Sherwood Sotelino, accompanied by an introduction by José Luiz Passos, this remarkable work unveils the author's early foray into delving into psychological and sociological issues of his era. For readers familiar with Machado de Assis' mature masterpieces, this novel serves as a captivating testament to the evolution of his artistic journey, as it portrays the captivating tale of Félix and Lívia, two characters immersed in the tumultuous world of 19th-century Rio de Janeiro.

The novel opens with Félix, a young and impressionable man, captivated by the allure of Lívia, a mysterious and captivating woman. Their initial encounter sparks a fiery infatuation that quickly evolves into a deep and passionate love affair. However, as their relationship progresses, a series of complex emotions emerge, testing the strength of their bond. Félix experiences a whirlwind of emotions, from the exhilarating rush of newfound love to the unsettling doubts that threaten to undermine their connection. Meanwhile, Lívia navigates her own set of challenges, grappling with the societal expectations and pressures that surround her. She yearns for freedom and independence, often finding herself at odds with the constraints of her conservative upbringing.

As the novel unfolds, Machado de Assis skillfully weaves together a tapestry of psychological and sociological themes, exploring the intricacies of human relationships and the complexities of societal norms. Through the characters of Félix and Lívia, he delves into the nature of desire, jealousy, and the destructive power of unbridled passion. The setting of 19th-century Rio de Janeiro adds an additional layer of richness to the narrative, as it provides a backdrop of social unrest, political upheaval, and cultural transformation.

The translation by Karen Sherwood Sotelino is masterful, capturing the essence of Machado de Assis' prose and preserving the nuances of his language. The introduction by José Luiz Passos provides valuable insights into the historical context and literary influences that shaped Machado de Assis' work, further enhancing the reader's appreciation of the novel.

In conclusion, Machado de Assis' first novel is a testament to his unparalleled talent as a storyteller. Through its exploration of profound themes and its vivid portrayal of the human experience, this work stands as a cornerstone of Brazilian literature. By presenting a captivating tale of love, desire, and the complexities of human relationships, Machado de Assis invites readers to delve into the depths of the human psyche and explore the societal forces that shape our lives. This insightful translation by Karen Sherwood Sotelino and the accompanying introduction by José Luiz Passos make this novel accessible to a broader audience, allowing us to appreciate the timeless wisdom and beauty of Machado de Assis' writing.

Dimension: 215 x 139 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781628973846