Earl E. Fitz Book order

Machado de Assis is presented not only as a literary giant of Latin America but also as a significant theorist of the modern novel. The book posits that if he had written in English, French, or German, his contributions to novelistic expression and theory would be more widely recognized and celebrated. It explores his innovative narrative techniques and thematic depth, highlighting his pivotal role in shaping modern literature.

Inter-American literary study is an exciting and fast-growing area of comparative scholarship. The Americas are tied together by a common historical heritage and by a history of social, political, economic, and cultural interaction. As a contribution to this field, this book brings together the literatures and literary histories of English and French Canada, the United States, Spanish America, the Caribbean, and Brazil. The periods focused on include the Colonial Period, the Nineteenth Century, Modernism and Modernity, the 1960s, and the Contemporary Moment. The author contrasts the different European heritages that were brought to the New World. In addition, the literature and culture of Native America is referred to in each of these sections that will be of use to the reader interested in this important topic, which we can rightly think of as the common denominator of all American literature.

Focusing on the significance of female characterizations in Machado's novels, this groundbreaking study reveals their crucial role in shaping the author's narrative and social perspective. As the first comprehensive analysis in English on this topic, it promises to enrich the understanding of Machado's work and inspire further scholarship in the field.

The book delves into the intricate relationship between Brazil and the United States, exploring their colonial histories, shared challenges of slavery and racism, and the complex political, economic, and cultural exchanges. It offers a comprehensive overview of Brazilian narrative, highlighting its European and indigenous roots, as well as discussing Brazilian literature available in English translation. This examination reveals the multifaceted influences and interactions that have shaped both nations.