What to Read to Know Brazil: A Comprehensive Guide to Brazilian Literature

Introduction

Brazil is a vast and diverse country with a rich literary tradition. From the early chronicles of the Portuguese explorers to the modern masterpieces of contemporary writers, Brazilian literature offers a unique and fascinating window into the country's history, culture, and society.

In this comprehensive guide, renowned literary critic Nelson Werneck Sodré provides an essential overview of Brazilian literature, from its origins to the present day. With over 1,500 pages of insightful analysis and commentary, Sodré's book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding Brazil and its people.

The Colonial Period

The colonial period of Brazilian literature begins with the arrival of the Portuguese in the 16th century. The early literature of this period is dominated by chronicles, which recount the adventures of the Portuguese explorers and settlers. These chronicles provide a valuable glimpse into the early history of Brazil and the challenges faced by the Portuguese colonists.

The Baroque Period

The Baroque period of Brazilian literature begins in the 17th century and is characterized by a focus on religious themes and a highly ornate style. The most important writers of this period include Gregório de Matos, who is considered the father of Brazilian poetry, and Padre Antônio Vieira, a renowned preacher and orator.

The Romantic Period

The Romantic period of Brazilian literature begins in the early 19th century and is characterized by a focus on emotion and individualism. The most important writers of this period include José de Alencar, who is considered the father of Brazilian fiction, and Gonçalves Dias, a renowned poet.

The Realist Period

The Realist period of Brazilian literature begins in the late 19th century and is characterized by a focus on social and political issues. The most important writers of this period include Machado de Assis, who is considered the greatest Brazilian writer of all time, and Euclides da Cunha, a renowned journalist and essayist.

The Modernist Period

The Modernist period of Brazilian literature begins in the early 20th century and is characterized by a break with traditional forms and styles. The most important writers of this period include Mário de Andrade, who is considered the father of Brazilian Modernism, and Oswald de Andrade, a renowned poet and essayist.

The Contemporary Period

The contemporary period of Brazilian literature begins in the mid-20th century and is characterized by a wide range of styles and themes. The most important writers of this period include Clarice Lispector, who is considered one of the greatest Brazilian writers of all time, and João Guimarães Rosa, a renowned novelist and short story writer.

Conclusion

Nelson Werneck Sodré's What to Read to Know Brazil is an essential guide to Brazilian literature. With its comprehensive coverage and insightful analysis, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding Brazil and its people.

Why You Should Read This Book

If you are interested in learning more about Brazil, its history, culture, and society, then What to Read to Know Brazil is the book for you. This comprehensive guide provides an essential overview of Brazilian literature, from its origins to the present day. With over 1,500 pages of insightful analysis and commentary, Sodré's book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding Brazil and its people.

Here are a few reasons why you should read this book:

• It is a comprehensive guide to Brazilian literature, covering everything from the early chronicles of the Portuguese explorers to the modern masterpieces of contemporary writers.
• It is written by renowned literary critic Nelson Werneck Sodré, who provides insightful analysis and commentary on each of the works discussed.
• It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding Brazil and its people.

Where to Buy This Book

What to Read to Know Brazil is available for purchase online and in bookstores. You can find it at major retailers such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Books-A-Million. You can also find it at independent bookstores and libraries.