CORDULINA THE REPRESENTATION OF WOMEN IN O QUINZE BY RACHEL DE QUEIROZ: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE CHARACTERS CONCEIÇÃO AND CORDULINA

Abstract

This article aims to comparatively analyze the characters Conceição and Cordulina in the work O Quinze, by Rachel de Queiroz. The proposal is to discuss the work from a perspective of gender and feminism, based on the representation of women based on the construction of these two characters. The adopted methodology is bibliographical research with a qualitative-descriptive approach. The inferences and discussions are anchored in studies by BOSI A (2015), SANTOS MAF and MONTEIRO AN (2021), and mainly QUEIROZ R (2016). The research results indicate that O Quinze serves as an exemplary work of feminist and gender literature. It challenges historically constructed stereotypes, featuring characters who make bold decisions, such as rejecting marriage and following their chosen professions. It is concluded that, as has been observed in recent years, society identifies more with Conceição, the protagonist, who challenges society's norms as an independent and conscious woman, prioritizing intellectual achievement over conformity. Her autonomy and determination are qualities often associated with male characters. On the other hand, Cordulina embodies traditional femininity, dedicated to family and domestic duties, firm in facing life's challenges in favor of her well-being, still present in our society.