2. José Maria de Eça de Queirós is a famous portuguese writer.

3. This novel was written during his later residence in Bristol and was first published in 1888.

4. Time – late 19th century Place - Lisbon
Setting
Time – late 19th century
Place - Lisbon

5. Carlos da Maia - grandson Afonso da Maia - grandfather
Main characters
Carlos da Maia - grandson
Afonso da Maia - grandfather

6. Secondary characters João da Ega Vilaça Eusebiozinho Taveira
Raquel Cohen
Eduarda

7. The Plot
The story is about a traditional aristocrat family. The novel uses the Monarchy's decline in Portugal as a predominant theme, reflecting the author's own regret at his country's slow decay. Carlos da Maia spends his time making witticisms about society and having affairs.