Quick Facts
Amor de Perdição. Portugal's tortured Romantic genius who wrote passion, lived tragedy.
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Life Journey
Camilo Castelo Branco was born to João António Castelo Branco and Maria Luísa de Sousa. He was the youngest of eight children.
At the age of ten, Camilo lost his mother, Maria Luísa de Sousa, which deeply affected his emotional development and future works.
Camilo begins his education at the Seminary of Lamego, where he studies theology and philosophy, though he later leaves without completing his studies.
Camilo and his family move to Porto, where he continues his education and begins to develop his literary interests and skills.
At the age of 20, Camilo publishes his first poem, marking the beginning of his literary career and his contributions to Portuguese literature.
Camilo starts writing novels, including his first, 'Amor e Ciência,' which reflects his early Romantic and Gothic influences and themes.
One of Camilo's most famous works, 'Amor de Perdição,' is published, solidifying his reputation as a leading Romantic and Gothic novelist.
Camilo marries Maria Amélia de Vilhena, a union that lasts until her death in 1875. Their relationship is marked by both love and tension.
Camilo takes on roles as a journalist and literary critic, contributing to various newspapers and journals, and engaging in the cultural and intellectual life of Porto.
Camilo publishes 'O Crime do Padre Amaro,' a novel that explores the themes of sin and redemption, further cementing his place in Portuguese literature.
Camilo shifts his focus to historical novels, such as 'As Pupilas do Senhor Reitor,' which blend historical events with Romantic and Gothic elements.
Camilo's wife, Maria Amélia de Vilhena, dies, leaving him devastated and influencing his later works with themes of loss and grief.
Camilo is elected a member of the Portuguese Academy of Sciences, recognizing his significant contributions to Portuguese literature and culture.
Despite his age, Camilo continues to write prolifically, producing novels, short stories, and essays that reflect his mature style and deep insight into human nature.
Camilo Castelo Branco dies in Porto, leaving behind a rich legacy of Romantic and Gothic literature that continues to influence Portuguese and world literature.