O Assassino de Macario: Comedia em tres actos

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

26913

Title

O Assassino de Macario: Comedia em tres actos

Language

pt

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

A satirical comedy by Camilo Castelo Branco set in Porto, Portugal. The play explores themes of parental authority, social conventions, and marital fidelity through the chaotic interactions of a father, his daughter, and her fiancé. With witty dialogue and absurd situations, the work offers a humorous critique of Portuguese society while ultimately celebrating love and reconciliation.

Summary up to 500 words

Set in an elegant room in Porto, Camilo Castelo Branco's comedy *O Assassino de Macario* (The Assassin of Macario) unfolds as a farcical exploration of domestic chaos, social conventions, and the enduring power of love. The play centers on Barnabé, a wealthy but weary father who dreams of retiring to a country estate, and his fiery daughter, Itelvina, a Mexican-Portuguese hybrid known for her impulsive nature and fiery temper. Itelvina is determined to marry Macario, a man her father despises for his gambling habits and low social standing. Barnabé, citing his own unhappy marriage and Macario's lifestyle, attempts to dissuade her, but Itelvina remains resolute. The plot thickens with the arrival of Liborio, Itelvina's new husband, who is already plagued by domestic absurdities. He suffers from a twisted foot and mysterious missing household items, leading to accusations that he is a somnambulist who destroys property while asleep. The narrative is driven by a series of misunderstandings, lies, and emotional outbursts. Itelvina's frustration with Portuguese customs and her father's interference leads her to consider fleeing to Mexico or a deserted island. Meanwhile, Barnabé's plans for a quiet retirement are thwarted by his daughter's determination and the arrival of a lawyer's notice regarding broken porcelain, adding a layer of legalistic comedy. The climax arrives when Itelvina discovers a legal document accusing Liborio of being the 'assassin of Macario,' a title that serves as a metaphorical or mistaken label rather than a literal crime. In a twist of fate, the misunderstandings clear up, and the characters realize the depth of their affection for one another. Itelvina confesses her love for Liborio, and the couple reconciles, embracing despite the chaos. Barnabé, seeing the happiness of his children, decides to abandon his dream of a solitary retirement and move to the Candal suburb. The play concludes with the family united, celebrating their love and finding peace in their shared home, highlighting the enduring power of family bonds over social conventions and personal grievances.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Drama