Between Sea and Wind: The Climate of the Azores as an Aggravator of Human Servitude in the Novel «Gente Feliz com Lágrimas» (1988)

Abstract

This article provides an ecocritical analysis of a Portuguese novel whose action takes place in the middle decades of 20th century in a rural setting in the northern coast of S. Miguel island. The purpose is to show that the Atlantic Climate of the Azores, going through a change due to global Climate Change, is a crucial issue affecting the dramatic condition of the characters, and it is potentially useful to the ecoliteracy of the readers. In conclusion the elements of «wind», «rain» and «cold» will be given a special relevance.