Seca quadriculada : um estudo comparado entre Vidas Secas e uma graphic novel homônima

Abstract

This present study seeks to investigate the comic adaptation of Vidas Secas by Graciliano Ramos, illustrated by Eloar Guazzelli and scripted by Arnaldo Branco, focusing on the visual elements and semiotics that compose this graphic narrative. The methodology used is qualitative, based on bibliographic research and theories that allow for an understanding of how the graphic adaptation revisits and expands the meaning of the original literary work. Published in 1938, Vidas Secas tells the story of a family of migrants from the northeastern region of Brazil, marked by drought, hunger, and social oppression, as well as difficulties in verbal communication, which worsen their isolation and reinforce their oppression. The visual construction of the protagonists—Fabiano, sinha Vitória, the kids, and the dog Baleia—is explored in detail, as well as the context settings and the use of shadows and colors, which makes the narrative atmosphere richier and provide a new experience for the reader.The study is based on key theoretical works, such as A Theory of Adaptation (2006) by Linda Hutcheon, which exploresthe challenges of adaptations; Understanding Comics(1995) by Scott McCloud, which examines the language and storytelling in comics; Comics and Sequential Art (1989) by Will Eisner, which looks at comics as a form of sequential art; and Os Quadrinhos (1975) by Antonio Luiz Cagnin, which focuses on the semiotic aspects of comic stories. The choice of this piece is justified by the historical and social significance of Vidas Secas and the inherent challenge of adapting a well-established narrative into a visual format, which offers new interpretative possibilities to the reader. This research contributes to the study of literary adaptations in comics, demonstrating how graphic and multimodal language can deepen and broaden the understanding of Graciliano Ramos's work, adding layers of meaning that engage with the social and cultural context of the work.