Carlos da Maia is a fictional character from the novel "The Maias," written by the Portuguese author José Maria de Eça de Queirós. Set in the late 19th century, the story follows Carlos, a young man from a wealthy family in Lisbon, as he navigates love, society, and personal aspirations. The novel explores themes of social class, family dynamics, and the complexities of human relationships. Throughout the narrative, Carlos struggles with his identity and the expectations placed upon him by his family and society. His experiences reflect the broader cultural and political changes occurring in Portugal during that time, making "The Maias" a significant work in Portuguese literature.