Esther and Tamar

Eroticism and Transgression in O ciclo das águas and Manual da paixão solitária, by Moacyr Scliar

Abstract

This article analyzes two female characters in Moacyr Scliar's work who face challenges and transgressions in order to experience eroticism: Esther, from O ciclo das águas, and Tamar, from Manual da paixão solitária. These women, marginalized in their social roles, are brought to the center of the narrative through actions that challenge traditions and norms for their gender. Esther is a young Jewish woman who is deceived and forced into prostitution, and Tamar is a biblical character mentioned in the book of Genesis who, to secure her livelihood, creates a plan to become pregnant by her father-in-law. Both women transgress the impositions present in their contexts, finding prominence and experiencing eroticism – circumstances still forbidden to women in various spheres of our Judeo-Christian society.