The mermaids who sailed the Atlantic

Authors

  • Andréa Caselli Universidade Federal da Paraíba

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.48487/pdh.2020.n10.21837

Keywords:

Enchanted moors, Portuguese folklore, Brazilian legends, religion, literature, enchanted moors, Portuguese folklore, Brazilian legends, religion, literature

Abstract

The myth of mermaids, present in many cultures, remains fascinating. Aesthetically represented in Classical Antiquity with bodies of birds and serpents, they are transfigured in the Middle Ages also with body of fish. Hybrid creatures, their mutation also caused changes in their symbology. This article systematizes and analyzes the image of the mermaid as a recipient of cult, folk character and historical element in the relations between Portugal and Brazil. Interest in the topic was caused by the fact that Brazilian mythical legends and nar- ratives about enchanted women originated in Portuguese literature and medieval art. To reach this goal, we examined medieval texts such as St. Anthony’s sermons, bestiaries, and noble books. A theoretical framework from authors of history and folklore such as Leite de Vas- concellos and Gilberto Freyre was also used.

Published

2021-01-21

How to Cite

Caselli, A. (2021). The mermaids who sailed the Atlantic. Práticas Da História. Journal on Theory, Historiography and Uses of the Past, (10), 219–248. https://doi.org/10.48487/pdh.2020.n10.21837

Issue

Section

Articles