Metalanguage and Discourse: The Configuration of Brazilian Purism

Introduction

In "Metalanguage and Discourse: The Configuration of Brazilian Purism," Marli Quadros Leite offers a comprehensive analysis of the development of Brazilian purism, a linguistic movement that sought to preserve the purity of the Portuguese language in Brazil. Leite argues that Brazilian purism was not simply a linguistic phenomenon, but also a social and political movement that reflected the broader cultural and political changes taking place in Brazil in the 19th and 20th centuries.

The Origins of Brazilian Purism

Leite traces the origins of Brazilian purism to the early 19th century, when Brazil was still a colony of Portugal. At this time, there was a growing sense of national identity among Brazilians, and many intellectuals began to argue that Brazil should have its own distinct language. This led to the development of a number of linguistic movements, including Brazilian purism.

The Ideological Foundations of Brazilian Purism

Leite argues that Brazilian purism was based on a number of ideological assumptions, including:

• The belief that the Portuguese language was a superior language to other languages.
• The belief that the Portuguese language should be preserved in its pure form, free from foreign influences.
• The belief that the Portuguese language was a symbol of Brazilian national identity.

The Linguistic Practices of Brazilian Purism

Leite describes the linguistic practices of Brazilian purists, which included:

• The use of archaic words and expressions.
• The avoidance of foreign words and expressions.
• The creation of new words and expressions to replace foreign words and expressions.

The Social and Political Impact of Brazilian Purism

Leite argues that Brazilian purism had a significant social and political impact on Brazil. For example, Brazilian purism helped to create a sense of national identity among Brazilians and contributed to the development of a Brazilian national literature. Additionally, Brazilian purism played a role in the development of Brazilian education and the formation of Brazilian intellectual thought.

Conclusion

In "Metalanguage and Discourse: The Configuration of Brazilian Purism," Marli Quadros Leite provides a comprehensive and insightful analysis of the development of Brazilian purism. Leite argues that Brazilian purism was not simply a linguistic phenomenon, but also a social and political movement that reflected the broader cultural and political changes taking place in Brazil in the 19th and 20th centuries. This book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of the Portuguese language, Brazilian culture, or the relationship between language and society.

Why You Should Read This Book

"Metalanguage and Discourse: The Configuration of Brazilian Purism" is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of the Portuguese language, Brazilian culture, or the relationship between language and society. Leite's comprehensive and insightful analysis of Brazilian purism provides a unique perspective on the development of Brazilian national identity and the formation of Brazilian intellectual thought. This book is a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone else interested in the history of language and society.