Chemistry in Brazil of eighteenth century: the book Elementos de Chimica (1788-1790) by Vicente Coelho de Seabra Silva Telles

Abstract

This research aims to analyze the structure and organize into sections the knowledge and contents of Chemistry present in the work “Elementos de Chimica”, elaborated by Vicente Coelho de Seabra Silva Telles between 1789 and 1790. A period that represents constraints of the Reform of Portuguese Higher Studies, mainly in the context of the University of Coimbra, when scientific-based knowledge began to be introduced through academic disciplines such as Biology, Physics and Chemistry. The analyzed book, produced in this scenario, carries characteristics of such changes. In this sense, we sought to establish relations between the teaching of the beginnings of Chemistry and the functions that such textbook can offer. For this, the research had as a theoretical-methodological reference the use of four functions: referential, instrumental, ideological-cultural and documental; taken from the works of Allain Choppin. Thus, through such functions, it was possible to build relations between the knowledge, contents and structure of the book. The presence of conditions arising from the compilation of modern scientific works at the time was established. The referential and instrumental functions stand out, which, since the Dedication section of the work, present intentions that indicate the use of the book “Elementos de Chimica” as a reference for the construction of curricula and teaching programs.