The lights of Arco do Cego

the portuguese enlightenment and knowledges in the 18th century

Resumo

Through the influences of the Enlightenment movement spread in Portugal, this article analyzed the origins of the Oficina Calcográfica Arco do Cego at the turn of the 18th century to the 19th century. The context in which the Institution began was also considered, highlighting the way in which natural philosophy served as a mechanism to leverage the agricultural potential of Portugal and its colonies. The structures of the Old Regime underwent major reforms in political aspects and areas of knowledge. Through manuals on techniques in agronomy, medicine, nautical, engineering and animals, Casa Literária promoted these productions for around 28 months, significantly expanding the construction and dissemination of knowledge.