The Alienist

“The Alienist”, a work by the Brazilian writer Machado de Assis, was published in 1882 and is part of the Realist movement in Brazil. The narrative follows the physician Simão Bacamarte, who decides to establish an asylum in the town of Itaguaí, where he begins to confine those he deems insane.

The book reveals Doctor Simão’s dedication—and growing obsession—with his studies in psychiatry. It also addresses themes such as political interests, ambition, and power, particularly through the character Porfírio. Marked by a humorous and ironic tone, the work features an omniscient narrator who critically exposes the vanity and selfishness of the human condition.