Classics:
* Machado de Assis (1839-1908): Arguably the most important Brazilian writer, known for his sharp wit, psychological depth, and exploration of social issues in works like "Dom Casmurro" and "Epitáfio."
* José de Alencar (1829-1877): Pioneer of Brazilian romantic literature, famous for his historical novels like "Iracema" and "O Guarani."
* Aluísio Azevedo (1857-1913): Leading figure in the Naturalist movement, known for his realistic portrayals of social issues in works like "O Cortiço" and "O Mulato."
* Euclides da Cunha (1866-1909): Renowned for his non-fiction works, particularly "Os Sertões," a detailed and powerful account of the Canudos War.
Modern and Contemporary:
* Jorge Amado (1912-2001): Prolific novelist known for his social realism and depiction of Brazilian life in works like "Gabriela, Clove and Cinnamon" and "Dona Flor and Her Two Husbands."
* Clarice Lispector (1920-1977): Highly influential writer known for her psychological depth and exploration of female consciousness in works like "The Hour of the Star" and "The Passion According to G.H."
* Ariano Suassuna (1919-2014): Playwright, novelist, and poet known for his regionalist themes and humorous works like "Auto da Compadecida" and "O Santo e a Porca."
* Rubem Fonseca (1925-2020): Master of crime fiction, known for his dark, cynical style and exploration of urban violence in works like "The Chief's Wife" and "The Bug."
* João Guimarães Rosa (1908-1967): Known for his experimental prose and rich language in works like "The Devil to Pay in the Backlands" and "Third Bank of the River."
* Moacyr Scliar (1936-2011): Renowned for his short stories and novels, often exploring themes of identity, exile, and the Holocaust.
* Lygia Fagundes Telles (1923-2022): Prolific short story writer and novelist known for her exploration of human relationships and societal issues.
* Paulo Coelho (born 1947): International bestseller known for his spiritual and philosophical novels like "The Alchemist" and "Brida."
This list is by no means exhaustive, as Brazil has produced many other talented writers. It is worth exploring the works of contemporary authors like Chico Buarque, Ana Miranda, Milton Hatoum, and many more.
To discover more authors, I recommend browsing online resources such as:
* The Brazilian Literary Archive: [https://www.brazilianliteraryarchive.com/](https://www.brazilianliteraryarchive.com/)
* Goodreads: [https://www.goodreads.com/](https://www.goodreads.com/)
* The Instituto Brasileiro do Livro (Brazilian Book Institute): [https://www.ibl.org.br/](https://www.ibl.org.br/)
Enjoy exploring the rich world of Brazilian literature!