На скалистом Шотландском мысе молодой человек рассказывает маленькой Иоланде об экзотической стране Бразилии, о «подвигах» испанской принцессы Карлоты Жоакины, которая в десятилетнем возрасте отправляется в Португалию, чтобы выйти замуж за принца Дона Жоао. Мрачный двор и трусливый несимпатичный жених производят плохое впечатление на юную принцессу..
Tadeu, a poor lad from the Northeast of Brazil, comes to Rio de Janeiro to try his luck. His good looks and education win him the favor of rich people. In his spare time, he becomes the favorite among lonely and rich ladies. Soon he gets involved in trouble.
Newly wed arrives at her husband's family house, in the country. The heavy atmosphere of the house frightens her, and she takes refuge in her homosexual son-in-law's room, who is kept locked and hidden from society. A tragedy occurs, causing her departure. She's only to return seventeen years later, and sick.