Baltasar and Blimunda
Jose Saramago · 1982
About this book
Set in eighteenth-century Portugal, a one-handed soldier and a woman with supernatural sight dream of building a flying machine. Saramago brings to life the Inquisition-era culture of Portugal while celebrating the defiance of ordinary people against tyranny.
Why read this for language learning
Saramago's 'Baltasar and Blimunda' is an advanced read, featuring his signature narrative style with long sentences and integrated dialogue, which challenges Portuguese learners to develop strong comprehension skills. The language is rich with historical detail, magical realism, and social commentary, providing extensive vocabulary related to 18th-century Portugal, religious institutions, and technological innovation. It offers profound cultural insights into the era's society and the construction of the Mafra Convent. Engaging with this book significantly enhances a learner's ability to navigate complex Portuguese prose and appreciate historical narratives.
Vocabulary you will encounter
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