Memorial do Convento, José Saramago

Memorial do Convento by José Saramago

In this episode, the focus is on discussing the novel "Memorial do Convento" by José Saramago.

Literary Period Synthesis

• The literary periods studied range from the 12th to the 20th century, covering Portuguese literature.

• From medieval art with troubadour poetry to Renaissance works like "Farsa de Inês Pereira" by Gil Vicente and Camões' "Os Lusíadas."

• Transitioning to Baroque in the 17th century, then Romanticism in the 19th century with works such as "Frei Luís de Sousa" and "Amor de Perdição."

• Realism in the late 19th century explored through Eça de Queirós' "Os Maias" and Cesário Verde's poetry, leading into Modernism with Fernando Pessoa's works.

Analysis of "Memorial do Convento"

• Title Interpretation

• Exploring the significance of 'Memorial,' linking it to memory and historical events like the construction of Mafra convent.

• Four Plot Lines

• Detailing four narrative threads: King Dom João V's commitment to building Mafra convent, laborers' contribution, a love story between Baltasar and Blimunda, and creation of a flying machine.

• Character Analysis

• Delving into Baltasar and Blimunda's characters: their love story amidst societal challenges and supernatural abilities.

• Critique Through Characters

• Examining how Baltasar symbolizes human condition while critiquing wartime atrocities; contrasting royal figures Dom João V and Dona Maria Ana Josefa with authenticity found in Baltasar-Blimunda relationship.

• Social Hierarchies

• Contrasting aristocratic conventions embodied by Dom João V and Dona Maria Ana Josefa with more contractual marriages against Baltasar-Blimunda's genuine bond.

Conclusion

New Section

This section discusses the characters involved in manipulating the king to build a convent and the involvement of the people in constructing it.

Characters and People's Involvement

• Franciscano tries to manipulate the king to construct a convent to bring Franciscan priests. Frei Boaventura de São João, known as Frade sensor do Paço, is also involved.

• The power of the King and clergy oppresses, exploits, and victimizes the people who are depicted collectively as an anonymous mass forced to contribute to realize the King's grand dream.