Death in Portuguese Literature for Children and Young People

Abstract

Up the 1970s and 1980s, Portuguese society, most notably in rural areas, did not conceal from the young the realities of ageing and the death of loved ones. Today these are effectively prohibited topics, and many children therefore grow up without any knowledge of death. But this shortcoming in the education of the young can in part be overcome by reading literary works such as those analysed in this article. Drawing on a wide range of stories and verses, both creative retellings of traditional tales and more markedly original writings, we see how modern Portuguese authors such as Antnio Mota and ´lvaro Magalhes are able to discuss death in a way that is accessible, and helpful, to children.