Bom-Crioulo
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This novel by the Brazilian writer Adolfo Caminha was first published in 1895. An English translation by E.A. Lacey was published in 1982 by Gay Sunshine.
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The novel was the first major literary work on homosexuality to be published in Brazil, and one of the first to have a black person as its hero. The novel caused a stir upon its publication but was almost forgotten in the first half of the 20th century. In the second half of the 20th century, the novel has been republished several times in Brazil and translated into English, Spanish, German and French.
Amaro avoids slavery by joining the navy, where he becomes known as Bom-Crioulo for his strength and good character. He befriends a young cabin-boy, Aleixo, and their friendship develops into a homosexual affair. When their ship returns to Rio de Janeiro, Bom-Crioulo rents a small room from Dona Carolina where the two live together. But when Bom-Crioulo has to return to sea separately from Aleixo, Dona Carolina seduces him, and the two become lovers until Bom-Crioulo, hospitalized after his return from the sea, discovers the affair.
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