Reviews tagging 'Sexism'

Memórias póstumas de Brás Cubas by Machado de Assis

3 reviews

kalizahira's review against another edition

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dark funny medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

I have never read anything like this, the format is still innovative 100 years later. The balance between self-awareness and hedonistic privilege is a thing of beauty. The book contains racism, sexism and classism of the time. The main character is a terrible person made somehow witty and engaging. It is worth the read for the structure and narrative alone. A scathing comment on the privileged classes. I would have liked a little more from the ending but a great example of Brazilian literature. 
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lapetite's review against another edition

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funny reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

A book was Francesca’s undoing; here, the waltz was ours.

This is a strange book. I loved the short chapters, and in general it was fun to read, though near the end it became tedious. The translation is absolutely exquisite, though.
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avaonvenus's review against another edition

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dark emotional reflective sad fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

While interlaced with little bits of sexism and ableism that pull the reader out of their reading, this is still one of my favorite books. Ever. The overarching plot is amazing, and the little heart-wrenching sentences and philosophical points that Assis makes cause you to stop to fully process what you’ve just read. It truly does kill me that Assis isn’t as prevalent in English speaking countries as it is in South America. In my opinion, everyone should read this book. While the expository style and unreliable narrator isn’t for everyone, those who enjoy the style will thoroughly enjoy this novel. I can’t recommend it enough, as it is a short read and extremely worth it. Assis truly is a genius and does not get enough praise from English readers for his work. This novel, since reading it, has been my go-to recommendation. Truly, this is the closest I’ve ever been to crying due to a novel.
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