The Cultured Spoken Language in the City of São Paulo: A Linguistic and Social History

Introduction

In this groundbreaking book, Ataliba Teixeira de Castilho and Dino Preti present a comprehensive study of the cultured spoken language in the city of São Paulo, Brazil. Drawing on a wealth of historical and linguistic data, the authors trace the development of the city's linguistic landscape from the colonial period to the present day. They argue that the cultured spoken language of São Paulo is a unique and vibrant form of Portuguese that reflects the city's rich cultural heritage and its status as a global metropolis.

The Colonial Period

The history of the cultured spoken language in São Paulo begins with the arrival of the Portuguese in the 16th century. The Portuguese settlers brought with them their own language, which was based on the dialect of Lisbon. However, the Portuguese language in São Paulo soon began to diverge from the language spoken in Portugal. This was due to a number of factors, including the influence of the indigenous languages of Brazil, the arrival of immigrants from other parts of Europe, and the development of a distinct paulista culture.

The 19th Century

The 19th century was a period of rapid growth and change for São Paulo. The city's population exploded, and it became a major center of commerce and industry. This growth led to a corresponding increase in the use of the cultured spoken language. The cultured spoken language became the language of the city's elite, and it was used in all aspects of public life, from politics to business to the arts.

The 20th Century

The 20th century saw the continued growth of the cultured spoken language in São Paulo. The city became a global metropolis, and its linguistic landscape became increasingly diverse. However, the cultured spoken language remained the dominant form of Portuguese in the city. It was used in all levels of society, and it was seen as a symbol of prestige and education.

The Present Day

Today, the cultured spoken language in São Paulo is still a vibrant and evolving form of Portuguese. It is used by people of all ages and social classes, and it is the language of choice for communication in the city's public spaces. The cultured spoken language of São Paulo is a testament to the city's rich history and its status as a global metropolis.

Conclusion

The Cultured Spoken Language in the City of São Paulo is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of language, the sociology of language, or the culture of São Paulo. This book provides a fascinating account of the development of the city's linguistic landscape, and it offers a unique perspective on the role of language in society.