"ALCIPE", "NATHERCIA" AND "TIRSE": CONSIDERATIONS ON THE LIGHTS IN THE FEMALE WORLD IN THE XVIII CENTURY PORTUGAL

Abstract

The 18th century was a period of change and controversy throughout the western world, serving as the stage for a shift in paradigms, the reshaping of intellectual structures and the questioning of ancient traditions. The new philosophical theories met with some resistance on Portuguese soil; therefore, it took some time for these changes to take root in Portuguese society. This essay will analyse the lives and works of three enlightened Portuguese women in the 18th century: D. Leonor de Almeida (1750-1839), also known as Alcipe; D. Catarina de Lencastre (1749-1824), or Nathercia; and D. Teresa de Mello Breyner (1739-1798?), also known as Tirse. In analysing the cases of Alcipe, Nathercia and Tirse, the present essay intends to shed some light on how 18th century social and cultural transformations influenced female education in Portugal; moreover, it examines the extend to which the thoughts and theories of 18th century authors on such thoroughly discussed subjects as education, literature and travelling contributed to the enlightening of women. Finally, this essay will also consider the modest yet expressive role played by these three women in the propagation of Enlightenment ideals in Portugal.