Tragedy and Redemption of the Mother-Slave Character: a Comparative Analysis of Mãe, by José de Alencar, and Cancros sociais, by Maria Angélica Ribeiro

Abstract

This article aims to offer a comparative analysis between the play Mãe, by José de Alencar (1829-1877), and Cancros sociais, by Maria Angélica Ribeiro (1829-1880). Maria Ribeiro was a pioneer playwright in the Brazilian female dramaturgy field of the 19th century. Therefore, this analysis, in addition to strengthening the field of study of both plays, also intends to present a thoughtful sight on one of the most acclaimed works of Maria Ribeiro. Cancros sociais may be considered a reflective dramaturgy of Mãe, which encourages an analysis, among other aspects, of the construction and denouement of the mother-slave character that, depending on the author, has different temperaments and opposite attitudes, revealing specific intentions or political positions from each playwright. Above all, this article focuses on two productions written in an anachronistic time, contrasting contemporary and historical thoughts contained in the analyzed plays. Comparing these works requires a certain distance in order to understand the artistic works from the social and cultural norms at that time.