Paradigms at Play

In reference to the question of characterization, Machado de Assis' theoretical statements are consistent and show a commitment to psychological truth. At the same time, the author's doubts about the realist school are manifest as a method of characterization different from the usual practice of creating lifelike individuals. Machado's interest, widely demonstrated in his short stories, is more relational and consists of building models of contrasting personalities or perspectives. Frequently, this contrary relationship between characters suggests opposing theories. However, the categorical nature of such dichotomies is generally called into question through devices such as the double

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