Dom Casmurro et les Yeux de Ressac : Book Review

"Dom Casmurro et les Yeux de Ressac" by Machado de Assis stands as a true masterpiece of Brazilian literature, delving into themes of love, jealousy, and betrayal with remarkable depth and nuance. The novel follows the narration of Bento Santiago, also known as Bentinho, as he recounts his love affair with his childhood sweetheart, Capitu. Throughout the unfolding narrative, it becomes clear that Bentinho's jealousy and paranoia distort his perception of reality, inviting readers to question the reliability of the narrator's account.

This novel skillfully explores the intricacies of human relationships and the masks we wear to conceal our true intentions. Machado de Assis adeptly portrays the internal struggles, doubts, and insecurities that plague Bentinho as he grapples with the possibility of his wife's infidelity. The author's writing is unexpectedly subtle yet powerful, allowing readers to delve into the depths of Bentinho's psyche and ponder over his motives.

One of the most captivating elements of the book is the portrayal of Capitu, a character who remains complex and enigmatic throughout. Through Bentinho's narrative lens, we witness Capitu's transformation from a vibrant and spirited young girl to a mysterious and captivating woman. The ambiguity surrounding her actions adds an air of mystery to the story, leaving readers uncertain about her true intentions.

Machado de Assis skillfully employs the backdrop of 19th-century Rio de Janeiro to explore social conventions and expectations. Through the lens of this novel, the author offers a critique of rigid societal norms and their impact on individuals' lives. His wit and satire shine through in his portrayal of the upper-class elite and the hypocrisies that underlie their ranks.

"Dom Casmurro et les Yeux de Ressac" is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged novel that captivates readers with its intricate plot and deeply developed characters. With its exploration of love, jealousy, and the human psyche, Machado de Assis elevates the genre of domestic drama to a new level of sophistication. This book is a must-read for anyone who appreciates literature that seamlessly combines psychological depth with societal critique.

What are readers saying?

The book "Dom Casmurro et les Yeux de Ressac" by Machado de Assis has received varying reviews, with some readers praising its complex characters and engaging narrative, while others express disappointment with its slow pace and ambiguous ending.

One aspect that consistently received praise is the depth and complexity of the characters. Many readers admired the well-developed protagonist, Dom Casmurro, and appreciated the way the author explored his internal struggles and conflicting emotions throughout the story.

Reviewers also commended the skillful and nuanced writing style of Machado de Assis. They were captivated by the author's ability to convey the characters' emotions and motivations through elegant prose. The descriptive language and vivid imagery used to depict the setting further enhanced the reading experience for many.

However, some readers did find the book to be slow-paced, which affected their engagement with the story. They felt that the narrative dragged at times, making it difficult to stay invested. Some reviewers also mentioned repetitive themes and events, which they found tiresome.

Furthermore, a number of readers expressed frustration with the ambiguous ending of the novel. They felt that important questions raised throughout the story were left unanswered, leaving them unsatisfied and wanting more closure. This lack of resolution proved to be a major disappointment for those who prefer a clear and conclusive ending.

DomCasmurroEtLesYeuxDeRessac BrazilianLiterature LoveandBetrayal