An exploration of the theory and practice of slavery in seventeenth-century Brazil in the writings of Padre Antônio Vieira

Abstract

Antonio Vieira (1608-1697) achieved prominence during the seventeenth century as a preacher and master of the Portuguese language. Various editions of his writings have preserved his colorful prose for nearly three centuries. His pronouncements on human bondage address issues that still plague the modern world. During the seventeenth century Brazil experienced a rapid rise in sugar production. Portuguese merchants capitalized on the colony's perennial labor shortage to market thousands of African slaves. As an important actor in the missionary activities of the Society of Jesus in Brazil, Vieira lived and worked in this milieu. This dissertation methodically explores the ideas and programs that Vieira proposed during his long career. His moral idealism clashed frequently with his concern for the economic well-being of his beloved country and its largest colony. His understanding of Brazilian labor needs utilized a justification for African slavery that denied any racial bias.