O eu e o outro: o legado de dois pais contado por Machado de Assis e Godofredo Rangel

Abstract

This argumentative work intends to study the ethics of Alterity within the contemporary relationships, as part of the analysis of the following short stories: Pai contra mãe ("Father versus mother"), by Machado de Assis, e O Legado (“The Legacy”), by Godofredo Rangel. In both narratives, conflicts caused by an unbalanced examination of the Other are identified. The personal differences are constituents of identity; nonetheless, putting into practice actions that collaborate for a better understanding of those we encounter may cause a positive interference, in a way that it points out to a better humanitarian and social coexistence among people. The theoretical frame of this research is set on the contributions of Emmanuel Levinas, whose thought is based on the defense of an ethical relationship between The Same and The Other. In his philosophical practice there is a reflection that does not seek to address the problem of being. Instead, it intends to set itself on an ontological anteriority, in a search for an ethic that leads to the adoption of respectful conducts related to the manifestation of Alterity. Therefore, from this theoretical prism, the ethical stance of Godofredo’s characters can be observed, which leads us to reflect on the human conduct regarding their feelings, thoughts and actions. Hence, such approach intends to propose an analysis that can assist the examination of these reflections, seeking to understand how individual interests become an obstacle to Alterity, eclipsing its essence and obliterating its authentic nature.