The ashes of the past: region, memory and identity in Coivara da memória, by Francisco J. C. Dantas

Abstract

This paper analyzes how the novel Coivara da Memória, by Francisco J. C. Dantas, dialogues with literary regionalism. Initially, a brief introductory reflection on the problem related to regionalism in Brazilian literature is presented, followed by a discussion of the positions of literary critics and the writer regarding his affiliation with the regionalist tradition. Next, the articulation between identity, memory, and region in the novel is examined, based on the protagonist’s perception of family relationships and local social practices. It is concluded that Dantas, through the memories of an imprisoned character, recovers symbols of regionalism, updates the uses of the regional material, and renews Brazilian literary tradition.