Writing the nation: Alberto Blest Gana's novelistic vision for a modern Chile
Abstract
This dissertation examines the nationalistic vision and progressive ideology found in three novels by Alberto Blest Gana. His novels are more than simple nineteenth-century romances that take place in a Chilean setting. Behind their romantic plots of star-crossed lovers hide lessons for social change. I demonstrate that Blest Gana's novels are purpose-driven with the goal of laying out what Chileans must do to modernize their nation. Chapter 2 analyzes the novel Martín Rivas to examine the role women play in Blest Gana's national project. Leonor Encina, the heroine, is a strong figure who pushes the boundaries of what is socially acceptable for a woman and is an active participant in the action of the novel. She is the emblematic modern woman and symbolizes the indispensable role women have in shaping the nation. Chapter 3 explores Blest Gana's vision for building a cohesive and inclusive country through the peaceful integration of the Mapuche Indians in his short novel Mariluán. Chapter 4 uses Mikhail Bakhtin's theory of the chronotope to study the extensive mannerism descriptions Blest Gana includes in El ideal de un calavera. The novel makes clear that the protagonist, Abelardo Manríquez, is a don Juan type womanizer who is immoral and thus impedes national development. His story, however, serves as the path for moving between the mannerism scenes that are of primary interest in the novel. Through these scenes the author promotes patriotic pride and shows various aspects of his country. While his novels often present what is awry in Chile they still are intensely nationalistic and foment patriotic pride. My project is significant because it provides a new understanding of Blest Gana's novels as an influential method for instilling national values and for proposing solutions to his country's social problems.
Degree
Ph.D.
Advisors
No, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Latin American literature|Latin American Studies|Gender studies
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