Zumbi de Palmares in transmedia narratives

a new ethos for teaching and learning

Abstract

This article aims to analyze how transmedia narratives about the character Zumbi de Palmares contribute to a new ethos in teaching and learning of Portuguese language. The research is grounded in the theory of new literacies, investigating a new ethos based on Alves and Cruz (2021), Lankshear and Knobel (2007), and Takaki and Santana (2014). It also draws from studies on transmedia narratives conducted by Figueiredo (2016), Jenkins (2009), Torre Aranda, and Freire (2020), among others authors. The methodology adopts a qualitative approach, along with descriptive, documentary, and applied research. For analysis, a corpus is formed by the capoeira song “Homage to Zumbi de Palmares”, the video titled “National Black Consciousness Day”, the comic book “Commemorative Edition of Zumbi de Palmares’ 300 years”, and the quiz “Zumbi de Palmares”. The results reveal that narratives across digital media focus on Zumbi’s life, providing detailed information with broad meanings. These narratives influence critical, collaborative, and participatory behavior among both narrative producers and teachers and students who can use these narratives for classroom instruction. Furthermore, the narratives exhibit an expansionist aspect, simultaneously addressing common themes while filling gaps left by other narratives. In conclusion, transmedia narratives about Zumbi de Palmares contribute to transforming a new ethos and mindset in the Portuguese language teaching and learning within the context of basic education.