Joaquim Maria Machado de Assis 

From an impoverished area of Rio de Janeiro, Joaquim Maria Machado de Assis rose to literary fame with a voice that was wry and political yet tender.  

Considered one of the greats of Brazilian literature, he delivered profound insight in vivid, imaginary terms.  

His work—spanning novels, short stories, plays and poetry—still captivates critics and inspires a global readership of millions.