Guma, noble knight of the sea and the mythical lusitanidade in Mar Morto

Abstract

Mar Morto, one of the most representative texts by writer Jorge Amado, updates important myths of the Lusitanian tradition, as pointed out by Gilbert Durand, and features a character who is the embodiment of the ideals of a mythical lusitanidade, through his warrior attributes. Guma, Jorge Amado’s most popular sailor, brings in its path a heroic conduct worthy of the imaginary knighthood. Guma is a predestined character, who does not conform to the limits imposed. He carries with him an impossible audacity, which makes him being chosen by the goddess Yemanjá, his faithful protectress. This Galaaz from Bahia, in dialogue with the A Demanda do Santo Graal, will be allocated a heroic place in the imagination of the people of the docks: the mystic savior who will return one day.