Meaning: The quote by José Saramago, a renowned Portuguese writer and Nobel Prize winner in Literature, reflects his perspective on the portrayal of characters in literature. Saramago's stance against the depiction of 'positive heroes' in literature sheds light on his preference for characters that exhibit perplexity, doubt, and uncertainty. In this analysis, I will delve into the implications of Saramago's quote and discuss how it relates to his literary works and the broader literary landscape.

Saramago's rejection of 'positive heroes' in literature stems from his disillusionment with the conventional portrayal of characters as unblemished, flawless individuals. He criticizes the tendency of such characters to become clichés, mere imitations of previous archetypes, until their essence is depleted. This critique reflects Saramago's belief that literature should mirror the complexities and contradictions inherent in human nature. By shunning the archetype of the 'positive hero,' Saramago advocates for a more authentic representation of human experience that encompasses the full spectrum of emotions and motivations.

The author's preference for perplexity, doubt, and uncertainty in literature aligns with his inclination toward realism and the exploration of the human condition. Saramago asserts that these qualities not only offer richer material for literary exploration but also mirror the genuine nature of human existence. By embracing the complexities and uncertainties of human behavior, Saramago aims to craft characters and narratives that resonate with readers on a deeper level, capturing the intricacies of the human psyche and the moral ambiguities that define our lives.

Saramago's own literary works exemplify his commitment to portraying characters with depth and nuance, eschewing simplistic portrayals of heroism in favor of more intricate and morally ambiguous figures. In novels such as "Blindness" and "The Gospel According to Jesus Christ," Saramago confronts the complexities of human nature and delves into the darker aspects of the human psyche. His characters grapple with doubt, moral dilemmas, and existential uncertainty, embodying the flawed and multifaceted nature of humanity. Through his writing, Saramago challenges the notion of 'positive heroes' and instead presents characters whose struggles and imperfections reflect the true essence of human experience.

Saramago's critique of 'positive heroes' and his advocacy for perplexity and uncertainty in literature also reverberate within the broader literary landscape. His perspective invites a reevaluation of traditional literary tropes and archetypes, prompting writers to embrace the complexity and unpredictability of human behavior in their storytelling. By rejecting the formulaic portrayal of heroism and embracing the inherent contradictions of human nature, Saramago encourages a more authentic and resonant depiction of characters and their inner conflicts.

In conclusion, José Saramago's quote encapsulates his rejection of 'positive heroes' in literature and his preference for characters imbued with perplexity, doubt, and uncertainty. This perspective reflects his commitment to portraying the authentic complexities of human nature and diverges from the clichéd and predictable portrayal of heroism in literature. Saramago's literary works serve as a testament to his belief in crafting characters that mirror the genuine intricacies of the human psyche, challenging conventional archetypes and inviting a deeper exploration of the human condition in literature.