The main idea of this paper is to reveal the genesis of the independent intellectual that Sérgio Buarque de Holanda was, present since his early writings, but particularly in his speeches and actions. Firstly, we will analyse his initial years as a student, when he wrote his first article, published by his teacher of Alfonso Taunay. From them on, we will notice how the refined, daring and provocative style of the young Sergio was present from his first studies. The improvement of this phase leads to the formation of the literary critic, a role that he did more need than by will, but wish increased the knowledge in several areas.