Philosopher or Dog?: Analysis of Major Characters
"Philosopher or Dog?: Analysis of Major Characters" explores the intertwining lives of several characters, primarily focusing on Rubião, a humble schoolteacher who unexpectedly inherits a fortune along with the care of Quincas Borba, a dying philosopher, and his dog of the same name. As Rubião navigates the elite circles of Rio de Janeiro, he becomes infatuated with Sophia Palha, the beautiful wife of his friend Christiano, leading to his emotional turmoil and unrequited love. The narrative examines themes of social mobility and the consequences of unchecked generosity, as Rubião's newfound wealth quickly dissipates, culminating in his descent into madness where he believes himself to be Napoleon.
Christiano Palha is portrayed as a man striving for social status while relying heavily on Rubião’s financial support, showcasing the complexities of friendship under pressure. Sophia, while charming and gracious, skillfully maneuvers her social interactions, exemplifying the challenges of loyalty amidst personal ambitions. The cast also includes Carlos Maria, a self-absorbed young man, and his adoring wife Maria Benedicta, alongside Doña Tonica, who embodies the struggles of unfulfilled expectations. Ultimately, the story raises questions about identity and the nature of reality, particularly as Rubião grapples with the philosophical implications of Quincas Borba's legacy—both as a man and his canine companion.
Philosopher or Dog?: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Joaquim Maria Machado de Assis
First published: Quincas Borba, 1891 (English translation, 1954)
Genre: Novel
Locale: Rio de Janeiro and Barbacena, Brazil
Plot: Psychological
Time: 1869–1872
Pedro Rubião de Alvarenga, a simple schoolteacher known simply as Rubião. He befriends the eccentric and dying Quincas Borba, from whom he unexpectedly inherits a substantial fortune and the obligation to care for the deceased's dog, also named Quincas Borba. While traveling to Rio de Janeiro, he meets Christiano and Sophia Palha, who introduce him into Rio's high society. He suffers from his unrequited love for Sophia. A generous man, he lends money freely, gives lavish gifts, and frequently entertains his many new friends, gradually dissipating his fortune. His rise in social status thus leads to his downfall. His descent into madness parallels his descent into poverty. He comes to believe that he is Napoleon, emperor of France.
Christiano Palha, a friend of Rubião. Christiano lives beyond his means, borrowing money from Rubião many times. He goes into partnership with Rubião and tries to restrain Rubião's impractical generosity. Christiano is particularly proud of his wife Sophia, whose beauty he displays—and uses—at every opportunity. The capital provided by Rubião gives him social mobility. As he rises up the social ladder, he leaves many old friends behind, but he does honor, to some extent, his promise to his wife to see to the care of Rubião.
Sophia Palha, the beautiful and gracious wife of Christiano Palha. Very attentive to Rubião, she manages to avoid any indiscretion. She smooths over her husband's less graceful behavior and knows how to cultivate those of use to her while ignoring old friends no longer of import. She toys with the idea of adultery, perhaps with Carlos Maria or Rubião, but she is a chaste and faithful wife.
Carlos Maria, a pretentious young man beginning to enjoy the fruits of his mother's fortune. Narcissistic and egotistical, he finds the perfect mate in Maria Benedicta, who adores and literally worships him.
Doña Tonica, the unmarried daughter of Major Siqueira, a friend of the Palhas until they rise in social status. She is finally engaged to be married, at the age of forty, but her fiancé dies just three days before the wedding.
Doctor João de Souza Camacho, a lawyer and politician who draws Rubião into politics, using the latter's money to fund the newspaper in which he publishes his own opinions. Camacho promises Rubião a position in the ministry, thus feeding his delusions of grandeur.
Maria Benedicta, Sophia's cousin from the country. Sophia gently acclimates her to city life. Maria falls in love with Carlos Maria and eventually marries him.
Quincas Borba, a man who considers himself to be a philosopher of the school of thought he calls Humanitism, which states that above all, people must eat. Rubião takes care of him in Barbacena, but Quincas leaves for the capital, where he dies soon after writing a letter to Rubião in which he claims to be St. Augustine. His dog, also named Quincas Borba, is his constant companion. As Rubião descends into madness, he suspects that Quincas Borba, the dog, is host for the spirit of Quincas Borba, the man.