O Publicador Goyano: Narratives on Public Health from the Secção Scientifica and letter from readers

Abstract

This article presents the analysis of narratives related to public health from the Secção Scientífica of the newspaper O Publicador Goyano, as well as the dialogue established between readers through letters sent to the periodical on the same subject. The historical and political context of the newspaper’s origin is addressed, which is rooted in abolitionist and republican scopes, as well as the figure of its founder, José do Patrocinio, considered an exception within the Afro-descendant community of the 19th century. An attempt to popularize science is observed by approaching topics related to health, education, hygiene and urbanization, such as the dissemination of European values and models, aiming to standardize society. The text is based on studies by Borges and Barbosa, Herschmann and Pereira, Larindo, Magalhães, Moraes and Rabelo. The research has a qualitative approach, triangulated by bibliographical research, documentary research and narrative analysis.