What would you like to read?Search books, authors, genres, shelves, users...
Search books, authors, genres, shelves, users...Search books, authors, genres, shelves, users...
What would you like to read?Search books, authors, genres, shelves, users...
Search books, authors, genres, shelves, users...Search books, authors, genres, shelves, users...
1882
A novel likely written in the mid-19th century. The story revolves around its central character, Martha, a young woman caught in emotional turmoil due to her past love for José Dias de Villalva, who has died, and her current life circumstances involving her marriage to Feliciano da Retorta. Through these characters, the novel delves into themes of love, loss, and societal expectations. At the start of the novel, the narrative introduces a bibliophile narrator reflecting on the love of old books despite the toll it takes on his finances. He learns from Senhora Joaquina de Villalva about a collection of old books found in her cellar, once belonging to a deceased student, José Dias. Intrigued, he discovers a poignant letter from someone named Martha, addressing her brother José, which reveals her deep emotional distress and unfulfilled love. This discovery leads the narrator to inquire about Martha, linking her to the student and foreshadowing the exploration of her backstory, including her arranged marriage and the impact of her earlier love, setting a dramatic tone for the unfolding tale.
