Jose Basilio Da Gama - Blog Posts

The Guaraní War

"Still reek outstretching o’er the desert strands Lakes of man’s life-tide tepid and impure Where float the fragments of the unsheeted dead Baiting the vulture. Volley still the vales With hoarse artillery bellowing horrid sound. Muse! do we honour to the Brave who tamed Uruguay’s rugged brood, and in its blood Washed out the affronting of his King’s decrees. Aye me! Thou lust of Empire, such thy cost!"

About the Book

Title: The Uruguay Author: José Basílio da Gama Published: 1769 Original Title: O Uraguai

Summary

This epic poem tells the story of the end of the Guaraní War (1754-1756), focusing on the enslavement of the Guaraní people under the control of the Jesuits (Society of Jesus). Set in Rio Grande do Sul, it offers a critical perspective on the conflict and the power dynamics at play.

The poem is divided into five cantos, following a style inspired by The Lusiads by Luís Vaz de Camões.

P.S. In English, the book is titled The Uruguay because the story is set along the Uruguay River in Rio Grande do Sul. Also, Uraguai with an "a" might have been a poetic choice by the author.

Key Themes

Colonialism

Power and War

Religion and Slavery