The Mythical and the Technological Imaginary in Macunaíma, by Mario de Andrade

Abstract

This paper discusses the relationship between the mythical and technological imaginary in Mário de Andrade’s Macunaíma. Overcoming binary distinctions between organic and inorganic, we will see how myth and technology are intertwined. For instance, imported commodities attract Macunaíma, whereas the capitalist giant, Piaimã is indeed an ogre, a fact that refers to a mythical imaginary.