Lima Barreto and the dichotomies of the Republic of Brazil

This article focuses on the representations of the Republic of Brazil (1889-1920) as constructed by intellectuals in the field of Humanities and the writer Lima Barreto in his work Os Bruzundangas. The study aims to analyze the influence of theoretical constructions by Brazilian social scientists and literature in shaping elements that contribute to the formation of national culture and identity, particularly in relation to social and political dynamics and cultural expressions. The theoretical framework draws upon the works of Raymundo Faoro, Renato Ortiz, Roberto da Matta, Roberto Schwarz, and Florestan Fernandes. The insights of these authors regarding the defined historical context will be examined in conjunction with Lima Barreto's chronicles compiled in Os Bruzundangas. By exploring these intersections, the article seeks to analyze the contributions of these intellectuals and the literary author in solidifying elements of national culture through shared representations found in these texts, thereby creating enduring collective imaginaries within Brazilian society that contribute to the formation of its identity.