18 Helena - Machado de Assis

Chapter 18: The Dilemma of Marriage

Helena's Confession to Estácio

• Helena reveals to Estácio that she hurried to see him because Mendonça informed her about a marriage proposal he received from her. She expresses uncertainty about the situation, emphasizing that her will is limited by others' desires.

• Estácio questions the validity of Helena's feelings, suggesting that marrying someone who isn't truly loved can lead to an unfulfilled life. He reflects on the complexity of love and marriage.

• Helena acknowledges a strong but hopeless love for another man, indicating that while she has feelings for Mendonça, they are not enough to justify marriage. She contemplates the nature of happiness in such unions.

The Nature of Love and Sacrifice

• Estácio challenges Helena’s view on love, arguing that if her passionate feelings are extinguished, it could be replaced with affection for her husband. He questions whether this would lead to true happiness.

• Helena counters by asserting that she cannot marry without genuine love and suggests there may be other paths to happiness beyond traditional marriage.

• They discuss the idea of hope in love; Estácio believes nothing is ever definitively lost in life, while Helena views their conversation as speculative and unrealistic.

The Concept of Choice in Relationships

• Helena considers the possibility of loving someone else more than Mendonça in the future but recognizes it as a gamble—comparing it to a lottery where outcomes are uncertain.

• Despite acknowledging societal pressures from figures like Titia and Father Melchior regarding marriage, she remains firm in her belief about personal choice and emotional fulfillment.

Reflections on Reality vs. Fantasy

• As they converse near a tank (water body), Estácio becomes distracted by nature while contemplating their discussion about sacrifice and duty within relationships.

• Helena accuses Estácio of unnecessary self-sacrifice regarding his feelings towards her situation with Mendonça. She implies he should oppose any notion that compromises his own happiness or integrity.

The Influence of External Opinions

• Their dialogue touches upon how external influences shape decisions around love and marriage; Helena notes how forbidden fruit often becomes more desirable due to its unattainability.

Discussion on Marriage and Relationships

The Context of the Conversation

• The narrator reflects on a moment of meditation, feeling disconnected from the events around him. Estácio, his uncle, enters the scene with a serious demeanor but greets him warmly.

• Estácio hesitates to reveal the purpose of his visit but is visibly excited. He seeks advice from Melchior regarding a marriage proposal for Helena.

The Proposal Discussion

• Melchior explains that he supports Estácio's desire for Helena's happiness and discusses her potential marriage to Mendonça.

• Estácio expresses concern about Helena's feelings, revealing she loves another man passionately but hopelessly.

Emotional Complexity

• Melchior acknowledges the emotional turmoil involved in marrying someone who harbors unrequited love, emphasizing the gravity of such circumstances.

• He questions whether it is fair for Helena to enter into a marriage while still emotionally attached to someone else.

Concerns About Compatibility

• Melchior argues that Helena is aware of her feelings and should not be forced into a situation against her will. He stresses that they should not complicate what seems straightforward.

• Estácio counters by stating that Mendonça lacks qualities essential for being a suitable husband for Helena, suggesting their relationship dynamics are flawed.

Final Resolutions

• The conversation shifts towards practical implications; Estácio fears losing Helena’s respect if she marries without genuine affection.

• Melchior insists on respecting Helena’s autonomy in choosing her partner and urges immediate action regarding her marriage prospects.

• As tensions rise, Estácio resolves to find another suitor for Helena while contemplating his own future decisions regarding marriage.