Gil Vicente, um intérprete dos seiscentos lusitanos: uso da literatura como fonte histórica através de autos vicentinos

Abstract

Our work aims to discuss the possible relationship, in the classroom, between history teaching, historical literacy and historical awareness, based on a literary text. We will use two plays by Gil Vicente (1465-1536) to problematize historical concepts such as time, power relations and the emergence of the Lusitanian State – Auto da Alma and Auto da Lusitânia. Through a didactic sequence and reading workshop, we will have as a final proposal a textual production by students with the objective of rereading the respective plays, as a way of better understanding the historical process mentioned. Based on the concepts of representation and religiosity, we will analyze the main characteristics of Vicentina's work, especially in its third phase (1518-1534) to understand the representation of Portuguese society in the 16th century through its typical characters, such as: the Church, the Bourgeoisie and the Nobility. Understand how Gil Vicente's satirical poetry, through irony, questioned clergy, nobles, and the bourgeoisie, and sought to nourish the Portuguese conquering spirit and medieval values with humanist traits and a deeply religious spirit. Vicente is one of the most important influences on Portuguese literature over the centuries, both inside and outside Portugal. His worldview contrasts modern Portugal with theological values based on Saint Augustine. It is important to understand his work as a historical source, especially in the areas of History and Literature, Social History, and History Teaching.