06 Helena - Machado de Assis

Chapter 6: The Return of Luís Mendonça

Introduction to Mendonça's Return

• The chapter opens with the arrival of a letter from Luís Mendonça, who has returned from Europe after two years. This news brings excitement and hope to the characters.

Character Dynamics and Relationships

• Estácio reflects on his friendship with Mendonça, noting their contrasting personalities—Mendonça being more lively and adventurous. Estácio declined to accompany him on his trip due to their differences.

• Úrsula is engaged in her sewing while reading, indicating her domestic role. Helena expresses joy upon hearing about Mendonça’s return, highlighting familial bonds.

Reflections on Time and Change

• Estácio reminisces about how quickly time passes since Mendonça left for Europe, emphasizing the changes that occur over time.

• A humorous exchange occurs when Helena jokes about aging and death, showcasing a light-hearted moment amidst deeper themes of mortality.

Conversations About Friendship

• Úrsula questions Estácio about his feelings towards Mendonça, revealing her protective nature as an aunt. Estácio praises Mendonça's character but acknowledges that people change over time.

Domestic Life and Leisure Activities

• The family gathers for tea, marking a transition into domestic life where conversations shift from serious topics to lighter ones like reading preferences.

• Helena humorously discusses her choice of literature with Estácio, indicating her youthful curiosity and desire for knowledge.

Aspirations and Learning New Skills

• Helena expresses a desire to learn horseback riding after seeing riders pass by outside. This moment signifies her yearning for adventure beyond domestic confines.

Preparations for Riding Lessons

• Helena insists on learning to ride despite concerns from others; this determination illustrates her independent spirit.

Emotional Connections Through Letters

• Estácio writes a heartfelt letter to Camargo’s daughter expressing remorse over past events. This act symbolizes reconciliation and emotional depth in relationships.

Anticipation of Riding Lessons

• As preparations begin for horseback riding lessons, there is an air of excitement among the characters. They engage in discussions about attire suitable for riding.

Overcoming Fear

• A philosophical discussion arises between Estácio and Helena regarding fear; she challenges traditional notions of fear as merely a mental construct rather than an inherent trait.

Estácio and Helena's Ride

Initial Encounter with the Horses

• Estácio approaches the stable, feeling a mix of affection for his sister and an unfamiliar impression as he sees the horses prepared for riding.

• Helena is seen gently stroking the mane of Moema, the mare, while Estácio acknowledges that it is an indigenous name.

• As Helena jumps onto Moema, Estácio admires her agility and grace but remains uncertain about his feelings regarding her actions.

Riding Dynamics

• Estácio expresses concern over Helena's safety while she confidently rides Moema, showcasing her skills. He reflects on how she has learned to ride well.

• Their conversation reveals a playful dynamic; Helena insists on riding together under the condition that Estácio must be cautious. She recognizes Moema’s temperament but feels confident in handling her.

• The siblings begin their ride at a slow pace through a fresh morning landscape, with Helena demonstrating her riding prowess despite Estácio's protective instincts.

Reflections on Wealth and Freedom

• During their ride, they discuss wealth and its implications; Estácio argues that true happiness comes from independence rather than material possessions. He emphasizes moral freedom over physical needs.

• They observe a black man laboring nearby, which prompts reflections on time and perspective—suggesting that one's experience of time can vary significantly based on circumstances and social status.

Philosophical Insights

• Helena challenges Estácio’s views by suggesting that time spent walking may be more fulfilling than rushing through life’s tasks; this highlights differing values between them regarding productivity versus enjoyment of life’s journey.

Pondering Freedom and Responsibility

The Nature of Freedom

• The conversation begins with a reflection on freedom, suggesting that true liberation can overshadow the constraints of captivity. Estácio humorously remarks that Helena should have been born a man due to her assertive nature.

• Helena expresses admiration for Moema, indicating that captivity might not be entirely negative as it provides sustenance and support. She contemplates the complexities of their situation.

Reflections on Life and Death

• A discussion arises about responsibility towards one another's happiness and life. Helena questions whether she would be blamed if Estácio were to suffer misfortune, highlighting the weight of personal accountability in relationships.

• Estácio dismisses morbid thoughts about death, emphasizing a desire to return home instead of dwelling on dark subjects. This reflects a preference for optimism over despair.

Journey and Discovery

• As they travel, Estácio checks the time, noting their progress toward a house marked by a blue flag. This moment signifies curiosity about their surroundings and potential discoveries ahead.

• Upon reaching the house, there is an air of mystery surrounding its significance as well as its dilapidated state. Helena's interest in exploring contrasts with Estácio’s caution against unnecessary risks.

Encountering Solitude

• The atmosphere around the house feels lonely; despite its apparent abandonment, they decide to leave rather than investigate further. This decision underscores themes of solitude versus companionship in their journey.

• Before departing, Helena wishes to bid farewell to the house symbolized by the waving blue flag—a gesture reflecting her emotional connection or curiosity about what lies within.

Emotional Underpinnings

• As they ride back slowly, Helena appears contemplative while Estácio tries to engage her in conversation. Their dynamic reveals underlying tensions or unspoken feelings between them.