Rites, identify and metamorphosis: the rites of margin in Uma aprendizagem ou O livro dos prazeres

Abstract

This article aims to analyze the novel Uma aprendizagem ou O livro dos prazeres, by the writer Clarice Lispector, from the theory of the rites of passage, in particular under the articulation of its second specific point, named “margin rites”. This is evident in the novel as being the most prolific of these rituals, since the protagonist is located in an interstructure, understood as a preliminary stage, which is the experience of the lived individuality, a period of isolation and autonomy from the group. In addition, this individuality becomes complementarity as Lori tries to establish a role model of fullness for her social life and it happens in relation to the other, thus constituting her identity. The other rites (separation and aggregation) also have this dynamic, but by following the process and path of the ritual, it is at the period of “margin” that we will find the possibility of better development of the actions and representations of the characters of the novel. The studied phases of Lori’s life refer to the time of her adult life, her relationship with Ulysses and the deepening of her sexuality.