Abstract

RODRIGUES, Aldair Carlos. Clergy, Society, and Power Relations in Colonial Brazil: On the Vicar Forane (Vigário da vara), 1745-1800. e-JPH [online]. 2015, vol.13, n.1, pp.40-67. ISSN 1645-6432.

This paper analyzes the vicariates forane and the profile of their main official, explaining the process through which the diocesan apparatus penetrated into the territory of Central-Southern Portuguese America (i.e. Minas Gerais and São Paulo, 1745-1800). Firstly, an explanation is provided of the way in which such structures were organized in the diocesan territory, as well as of their role in episcopal government. Secondly, some light is shed on the power relations and social dynamics that controlled access to the office of vicar forane (vigário da vara).

Keywords : Church power; Appointments to office; Clergy; Colonial Brazil.

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