Capitu

Definition

Capitu is a central character in Machado de Assis's novel 'Dom Casmurro,' known for her enigmatic personality and complex relationships, particularly with the protagonist, Bentinho. Often interpreted as a symbol of femininity and ambiguity, Capitu's character raises questions about trust, fidelity, and the nature of perception within the narrative. Her defining features include her famous 'oblique' eyes, which contribute to the novel's themes of jealousy and uncertainty.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Capitu's character is often interpreted as embodying both innocence and deception, making her one of literature's most debated figures.
2. Her 'oblique' eyes are a significant motif that symbolizes mystery and elusiveness throughout the narrative.
3. The tension between Capitu and Bentinho reflects broader societal themes of gender roles and expectations in 19th-century Brazil.
4. Capitu's relationship with Escobar, a close friend of Bentinho, fuels the central conflict of jealousy and betrayal in the story.
5. The ambiguity surrounding Capitu's actions and motivations keeps readers guessing about her fidelity to Bentinho until the very end.

Review Questions

• How does Capitu's character challenge traditional notions of femininity in 19th-century Brazilian literature?
  • Capitu embodies complexity and ambiguity, contrasting with conventional portrayals of women during her time. Rather than being merely a passive figure or a mere object of desire, she displays intelligence, agency, and emotional depth. This portrayal complicates Bentinho's view of her and prompts readers to question societal expectations surrounding women's behavior, thus challenging traditional notions of femininity in literature.
• Analyze the significance of Capitu's 'oblique' eyes within the context of her relationship with Bentinho.
  • Capitu's 'oblique' eyes serve as a powerful symbol throughout 'Dom Casmurro,' representing both her allure and the uncertainty that defines her relationship with Bentinho. These eyes not only captivate Bentinho but also evoke feelings of jealousy and suspicion. Their ambiguous nature mirrors the complexities in their relationship, making it difficult for Bentinho to fully trust or understand Capitu, which ultimately drives the narrative's central conflict.
• Evaluate how Capitu’s character contributes to the themes of memory and reliability in 'Dom Casmurro.'
  • Capitu’s character plays a crucial role in exploring themes of memory and reliability within 'Dom Casmurro.' As an unreliable narrator, Bentinho’s perception of Capitu influences how readers interpret her actions. His jealousy clouds his memory and understanding, raising questions about what is true versus what is imagined. This dynamic forces readers to grapple with how subjective experiences shape narratives, ultimately highlighting the instability of memory and truth.

Related terms

Bentinho: The protagonist of 'Dom Casmurro,' whose perspective shapes the narrative and his tumultuous relationship with Capitu.

Dom Casmurro: A novel by Machado de Assis that explores themes of memory, jealousy, and the reliability of narration through the story of Bentinho and Capitu.

Unreliable Narrator: A narrative technique where the credibility of the narrator is compromised, leading readers to question the truthfulness of their account, as seen in Bentinho's storytelling.