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The Joys and Disappointments of German Governesses in Imperial Brazil

Tony Carter

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German governesses were a common sight in the homes of wealthy Brazilian families during the 19th and early 20th centuries. These women played a vital role in the education and upbringing of Brazil's elite, but their experiences were often bittersweet.

On the one hand, German governesses were highly respected for their knowledge and skills. They were often the only women in Brazilian society who had received a formal education, and they were expected to be able to teach a wide range of subjects, including reading, writing, arithmetic, history, geography, music, and foreign languages.

The Joys and Disappointments of a German Governess in Imperial Brazil

by Penelope Douglas

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Language	:	English
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In addition to their academic qualifications, German governesses were also expected to be moral exemplars. They were responsible for instilling in their charges the values of hard work, discipline, and obedience.

On the other hand, German governesses were often isolated and lonely. They were typically the only German-speaking person in the household, and they often had little contact with the outside world. They were also subject to the whims of their employers, who could fire them at any time.

Despite the challenges, many German governesses found their work in Brazil to be rewarding. They were able to use their skills and knowledge to make a difference in the lives of their charges. They also forged close bonds with the families they worked for, and many of them remained in Brazil long after their contracts had expired.

Here are some excerpts from the letters and diaries of German governesses in Imperial Brazil:

"I am very happy in my position here. The family is very kind to me, and I am treated as a member of the family. I have my own room, and I am given a generous allowance. I am also free to come and go as I please."

"I am very lonely here. I am the only German-speaking person in the household, and I have little contact with the outside world. I am also subject to the whims of my employers, who can fire me at any time."

"I am very proud of the work I do. I am able to use my skills and knowledge to make a difference in the lives of my charges. I am also grateful for the opportunity to live in Brazil and to experience a different culture."

The experiences of German governesses in Imperial Brazil were complex and varied. Some women found their work to be rewarding and fulfilling, while others found it to be isolating and lonely. Despite the challenges, many German governesses remained in Brazil long after their contracts had expired, a testament to the strong bonds they formed with the families they worked for.