The Church and the Jesuit College of São Paulo: A History of Education and Power in Colonial Brazil

Introduction

In his book "The Church and the Jesuit College of São Paulo: A History of Education and Power in Colonial Brazil," Geraldo Dutra de Moraes offers a comprehensive and engaging account of the role of the Jesuit order in the development of education and power in colonial Brazil. Drawing on a wealth of archival research, Moraes provides a detailed history of the Jesuit college in São Paulo, from its foundation in 1554 to its expulsion from Brazil in 1759.

The Jesuit College in São Paulo

The Jesuit college in São Paulo was one of the most important educational institutions in colonial Brazil. Founded by the Jesuit order, the college provided education to both Portuguese and indigenous students. The curriculum included a wide range of subjects, including grammar, rhetoric, philosophy, and theology. The college also had a strong emphasis on music and the arts.

The Jesuits and the Church

The Jesuits played a central role in the spread of Catholicism in Brazil. They established missions throughout the colony, and they were instrumental in converting indigenous peoples to Christianity. The Jesuits also played a key role in the development of the Inquisition in Brazil. The Inquisition was a religious tribunal that was established to suppress heresy and to enforce Catholic orthodoxy.

The Jesuits and Power

The Jesuits were not only educators and missionaries, but they were also powerful political actors. They had close ties to the Portuguese crown, and they often served as advisors to the governor-general of Brazil. The Jesuits also had a significant influence on the development of Brazilian society. They helped to create a more literate and educated population, and they played a key role in the development of Brazilian culture.

The Expulsion of the Jesuits

In 1759, the Jesuits were expelled from Brazil by the Portuguese crown. The expulsion was the result of a number of factors, including the growing power of the Jesuits, their close ties to the Portuguese crown, and their opposition to the Enlightenment. The expulsion of the Jesuits had a profound impact on Brazil. It led to the decline of the Jesuit college in São Paulo, and it also weakened the Catholic Church in Brazil.

Conclusion

Geraldo Dutra de Moraes' book "The Church and the Jesuit College of São Paulo" is a valuable contribution to the history of education and power in colonial Brazil. Moraes provides a detailed and engaging account of the Jesuit college in São Paulo, and he explores the complex relationship between the Jesuits, the Church, and the Portuguese crown. The book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of Brazil, the history of education, or the history of the Catholic Church.

Why You Should Read This Book

"The Church and the Jesuit College of São Paulo" is a fascinating and informative book that offers a unique perspective on the history of Brazil. Moraes' writing is clear and engaging, and he does an excellent job of bringing the past to life. The book is also full of interesting details and anecdotes that make it a pleasure to read.

If you are interested in the history of Brazil, the history of education, or the history of the Catholic Church, then I highly recommend reading "The Church and the Jesuit College of São Paulo." You will not be disappointed.