The uses of writing in the family context: The writing practice in Brazil during the second half of the 19th century

Abstract

This article deals with the uses of writing in the family context by studying written testimonies of the Castilhos family, which belonged to the agrarian elite of Rio Grande do Sul in the second half of the 19th century. Its sources are the private writings of family members, and it analyzes them quantitatively and qualitatively. It presents a typology of the writings and discusses the different roles that writing played in the family context. It demonstrates that, although the ability to write was a privilege of a minority, its uses were varied, meeting needs such as communication, business administration and resolving everyday issues.

Keywords: family, writing practice, written testimonies.