Crime, which I know, is to do betrayal, to be a thief of horses or cattle ... not fulfill the word ... - always I fulfill the word given! He shouted from there Zé Bebelo.
In "Grande Sertão: Veredas," the character Zé Bebelo expresses a deep sense of honor and integrity tied to his understanding of crime. He equates betrayal and theft, particularly of horses or cattle, with moral failure, emphasizing that such actions are a betrayal of one's promises. For Zé Bebelo, maintaining one's word is paramount, and he prides himself on always fulfilling the commitments he makes.
This reflection highlights the broader themes of loyalty and ethical conduct in the narrative. Zé Bebelo stands in contrast to those who fail to uphold their promises, underscoring the significance of trust and honor in the harsh realities of life portrayed in the book. Through this character, author João Guimarães Rosa delves into the intricate moral landscape of the sertão and the human condition.
