Resumo
"Triste Fim de Polycarpo Quaresma" by Lima Barreto tells the story of Major Polycarpo Quaresma, an eccentric and deeply committed Brazilian patriot.
Driven by an intense love for his homeland, he meticulously studies Brazil's natural resources, history, geography, and literature, even learning Tupi-Guarani, which he believes to be the most genuine national language.
The novel, often satirical in tone, portrays Quaresma's idealistic attempts to implement radical reforms for the nation, which frequently clash with the prevailing societal norms and political realities, ultimately leading to his "sad end".