THE FRANCISCANS IN PARAÍBA: RELIGIOUS FORMATION, EDUCATION AND CONVENTUAL LIBRARY (18TH AND 19TH CENTURIES)

Abstract

This paper analyses the intra and extramural educational work of Franciscan Friars in the Province of St. Anthony of Brazil, with special focus on Paraíba, between 18th and 19th centuries. The paper intends, basing upon some documental sources, understand how the Friars were designated to teach and lecture functions and identify, from two lists established by the provincial superior in 1779 and sent to Queen Mary I from Portugal, which of the professed friars of the Province exercised these functions. The importance of monastic libraries for teaching activities of Franciscans in the entire religious Province is also analysed, as well as the library’s collection of Paraíba convent through an inventory done by the Order in 1852.

Keywords: franciscans; education; monastic libraries; 18th and 19th centuries; Paraíba