Reis de boi: portuguese influence in popular brasilian culture

Abstract

“Reis de Boi” is a manifestation of the Brazilian popular culture, which is connected to the festivities of the Christmas cycle, is devoted to the Reis Magos. Having its origins from iberic religious manifestations, the popular traditions of the Reis Magos arrived in Brazil with the Portuguese at the time of the colonization. The Portuguese culture is spread all over this country, from north to south, east to west, mixed with the black and indian cultures. What makes this emense territory interesting is the fact that we are able to observe dances,music,parties and folklore, all due to this miscigenation. Mingling sacred and profane the Reis de Boi dance and sing bringing joy to the hearts of children and adult. The beats of rattles, chords of concertinas and strum of the guitars cause people to smile and the party begins. This article aims at the expansion of publications about this manifestation,contributing to the visibility and recognition of this important cultural practice.