The Brazilian Intellectual Antonio Carneiro Leão and Relational Interculturality in the Reform of Foreign Languages (1930-1934)

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to present the presence of relational interculturality in Carneiro Leão’s reform of foreign language teaching at Colégio Pedro II (1930-1934). Relational interculturality is concerned with fostering contact among diverse cultures and promoting integration across different cultural and ethnic groups. Carneiro Leão implemented relational intercultural actions within the foreign language reform, such as establishing conversation clubs for oral practice, organizing letter exchanges between Brazilian students and those from other countries, and employing language laboratories. Regarding methodology, this study adopts a qualitative, exploratory bibliographic and documentary approach, grounded in historical-dialectical materialism (Marx, [1867] 2011; Sanfelice, 2008). The results indicate that Carneiro Leão sought to encourage interaction between Brazilian students and their peers from France, Germany, and the United States through these relational intercultural practices within the language reform. The dialogue among cultures is essential for fostering a culture of peace and represents, therefore, the possibility of mutual respect among diverse cultures, considering the heterogeneous nature of societies and their multiple origins.