“Amor” e “feliz aniversário”, de Clarice Lispector: uma leitura de aspectos culturais e de gênero

Abstract

This Master Thesis aims to analyze the representations of the protagonists Ana and D. Anita, respectively, in “Amor” and “Feliz Aniversário” short stories by Clarice Lispector, published in Laços de Família, in 1952. Thus, we started from issues related to the categories of gender and identity, as well as focusing on the symbolism of the gaze and silence of the main character, especially in the second short story. We chose these stories because we notice on them a fundamental concern in the narratives from this author: a female character goes through conflicts that she cannot explain very well. A woman who experiences situations that prompt the questioning of traits directly related to her identity, in her most distinct and complex social roles. Moreover, we highlighted the importance of uncovering and understanding the process of (re)construction of their own identity, undertaken by these characters. The survey included reflections that marked their feminist thought and new approaches, as well as studies on the subject of displacement and fragmentation of identity in the so-called late modernity, pointing ways to understand such women without an essentialist view. For this, we rely on the theoretical apparatus of Stuart Hall related to issues of cultural identity. Judith Butller and Joan Scott were references to the discussion of the gender notion. The survey showed us a series of roles that society assigns to women's status and, in parallel, the choices she makes (or does not make) about the values they represent and sustain her.