Dimensions
128 x 198 x 26mm
Eca de Queiros (1845-1900) was Portugal's greatest 19th Century novelist whose works brilliantly evoke - and condemn - the rapidly changing society of his times. The Maias depicts the declining fortunes of a landowning family over 3 generations as they are gradually undermined by hypocrisy, complacency and sexual licence. The author was a diplomat who travelled widely, and although he claimed to be an apostle of Naturalist Realism, he reveals with detached irony the lethargy and decadence of his native land. The book initially attracted attention through its account of an incestuous romance, yet today we can see this as just one element in a novel whose compelling story, depth of thought and compassion make it one of Europe's great literary masterpieces.
