A literatura infantojuvenil e a filosofia com as crianças: o caso das personagens do Sítio do Picapau Amarelo, de Monteiro Lobato

Abstract

The thesis here presented inserts itself into a broad field of discussion which ties together Literature and Philosophy, stemming from the thought that Literature is fruition, it can, however, subsidize reflective critical thinking or the process of philosophizing in childhood. Its purpose is to present the human formation of the youth utilizing literature aimed at children and young adolescents and philosophy as its base, tying the case study of the work of Monteiro Lobato into the bibliographical research. It is an interpretation of the works of Monteiro Lobato which were aimed at children and young adolescents, highlighting philosophical aspects present in certain characters. In the process of exploring the saga, there occurs an unearthing of interactions and possibilities for discussion and connection between children’s literature and philosophy through dialogues with Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Paulo Freire and Nietzsche which constitute, alongside Monteiro Lobato and his commentators, the bibliographical references of this research. The figure of the character Dona Benta stands out, as she narrates circumstances and characters which are philosophical. Another instigating character from the work is Tia Nastácia, which has a personality gifted with practical and popular knowledge, whose presence helps in caring for the children’s well-being. In teaching the religious and popular practices of the Brazilian nation, Tia Nastácia reveals the genuine aspects of our citizens. As such, it is evidenced that literature, through lucidity, can function as a driving factor for the human formation of young thinkers.