As “elites” e o “povo” de Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro: a atuação político- intelectual no jornal O Besouro (1878-1879)

Abstract

This work analyses the journal O Besouro, published by the Portuguese caricaturist Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro (1846 – 1905), between the years of 1878 and 1879. We seek to comprehend how he represented, in this periodical, two social groups, here called by “elites” and “people”. The way these two different “characters” interact reveals a transforming project proposed to the Brazilian society. These publications take place in a specific context in which both Portugal and Brazil have their respective societies criticized by intellectuals of the so called 70’s Generation, that seek a reforming intervention for these countries. It will also be of great importance to think about the idea of “representation” as a construction of the author in attempt to reform the Brazilian society. Having the press of that time as a media of great importance for the circulation of information and ideas, Bordalo Pinheiro published his caricatures to seek, through the laugh, pointing the evils of Rio de Janeiro’s society, for then reforming it. Upon comprehending how these groups were represented in his work, it is possible to visualize a certain attitude of egoism on the part of the artist. This occurs since he assigns himself the role of society’s reformer and transformer, treating its other members (the “people” and the “elites”) as groups in need of a guide, of a light that will bring everyone’s salvation.