FIGURATIONS OF VIOLENCE AND GENDER IN ANAHY DE LAS MISIONES

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the figurations of violence and gender from the analysis and interpretation of the film Anahy de las Misiones (1997), by Sérgio Silva. The setting of the feature film is the Pampa of Rio Grande do Sul during the period of the Farroupilha Revolution (1835-1845). The plot contrasts with the official history of Rio Grande do Sul – captivated by the celebration of gaudéria masculinity through narratives of bravery and virility – by introducing us to Anahy, a wandering woman, former prostitute, single and old woman who takes the lead in her family and survives from the collection and sale of remains found in the remains of the war killings. Anahy's wanderings and her way of facing the violence of war subvert the traditional gaucho representation that attributes to women an identity marked by subordination. Reading the film allows us to discuss, on the one hand, the figurations of violence and gender; and on the other hand, to question the absences of official history and think about other protagonists.