O dragão e a feiticeira: a velhice feminina como voz do patriarcado em Riacho Doce, de José Lins do Rego

Abstract

This article try to analyses the novel Riacho Doce, by José Lins do Rego, calling atten-tion to feminine figure with empowerment, represented by two old ladies from different families: the widows Elba and Aninha. We understand that these two ladies represent powers which are contrary to the protagonist’s ideal, Edna/Eduarda, reinforcing at the narrative the patriarchal social context that sees a woman as someone attached to a des-tiny previously organized. Therefore, we realize that Elba and Aninha exteriorize the patriarchal voice, and work as antagonists for the main character.