The representation of science and scientists in The Alienist and other works of fiction

Abstract

A network of discursive convergences is established between the work The Alienist, by Machado de Assis, and other cultural objects of various forms and physical supports, using a hermeneutic-dialectical framework of analysis, aiming to demonstrate a constant emphasis on the representation of science, through the figure of the scientist and surrounding elements. Strategies identified in these works are compared, with reference to previous works that focused on the historical roles and images of science. Regarding The Alienist, the recurrence of a negative image is observed, conveyed by the protagonist’s eccentric, antisocial and self-destructive behaviour.