The lessons of Machado de Assis: literature and science in the Jornal das Famílias (Family Journal magazine)

Abstract

This article examines the participation of Machado de Assis in the periodical Jornal das Famílias (1863-1878). The aim was to highlight his literary efforts in writing stories that would somehow be in tune with other collaborators and with certain expectations created by intellectuals and scientists concerning women. At the time of the magazine’s publication, there was some interest in defining the role that should be occupied by any mother responsible for raising future citizens of the Empire.