Spanish and Portuguese ETDs

Publication Date

8-30-2011

Abstract

This thesis focuses on the fictional writings of three contemporary Brazilian authors: Ana Paula Maia, Luiz Ruffato and Marcelino Freire. In selected works of the three above-mentioned writers, I examine the intertwined representation of social violence and denial of citizenship. The thesis inquires into the way literature depicts and critiques socio-economic difference and proposes — within the fictional realm — modes of reclaiming agency through written expression. Specifically, I examine how violence is broached in contemporary Brazilian literature - what are the aesthetic tools employed to portray violence, why they are used and what is the ideology and the discursive goals in this representation. Additionally, I investigate how the city is an integral element in this process of social empowerment and disempowerment, inquiring into how violence and ensuing social tension change the metropolis cultural and social landscape.

Degree Name

Portuguese (MA)

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

Spanish and Portuguese

First Committee Member (Chair)

Milleret, Margo

Second Committee Member

Lopez, Kimberle

Third Committee Member

McKnight, Kathryn

Language

Portuguese

Keywords

Maia, Ana Paula--Criticism and interpretation, Ruffato, Luiz, 1961- --Criticism and interpretation, Freire, Marcelino, 1967- --Criticism and interpretation, Violence in literature, Citizenship in literature, City and town life in literature, Social status in literature

Document Type

Thesis

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