Student Question
In "One Hundred Years of Solitude," why are the Buendias unlikable?
Quick answer:
The Buendias in One Hundred Years of Solitude are often unlikable due to their stubbornness and unwavering commitment to their pursuits, regardless of their validity. Characters like Amaranta and Colonel Aureliano exemplify this trait by rejecting suitors and obsessing over war and other interests, respectively. While this determination leads to some achievements, it is also their greatest flaw, causing them to be perceived negatively as they prioritize personal obsessions over practicality.
While each of the Buendias have admirable qualities, their greatest downfall is their stubbornness. For example, Amaranta is dislikable because she repudiates every suitor that approaches her. Likewise, Colonel Aureliano is unable to relinquish his focus on certain interests, including war, the lab, and women. Essentially, the same determination that leads to some of the greatest achievements throughout Macondo, such as Ursula's insistence on staying in the city although Jose Arcadio is ready to abandon it, also leads to their greatest character flaw.
It is important to note that as a family they are disliked due to their unwavering commitment to all projects, regardless of their validity. Yet, they each commit to differing interests ranging from the preservation of chastity to the translation of Melquiades' parchments.
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