THE EVOLUTION OF PORTUGUESE GRAMMAR

Abstract

The History of Grammar in the Portuguese Language is the central theme of this work, which analyses the evolution of grammaticalization processes from the first systematizations in the 16th century to contemporary transformations. The study seeks to understand how Portuguese grammar was historically constituted as a metalinguistic instrument and a symbol of cultural identity, highlighting the tension between norm and usage, and the influence of historical movements such as the Renaissance. The main objectives were to identify and describe the instruments used to grammatize the Portuguese language, categorize them by historical moment, origin and methodological reference, as well as to trace the trajectory of Lusophone grammatography. The methodology adopted was qualitative, descriptive and analytical, based on a bibliographical review of classic and contemporary works, as well as a documentary analysis of historical grammars, such as those by Fernão de Oliveira, João de Barros and Jerônimo Cardoso. The results show that Fernão de Oliveira's grammar, published in 1536, was a pioneering milestone, as it valued orality, proposed a descriptive approach and affirmed the autonomy of the Portuguese language in relation to Latin. Later, works such as those by João de Barros and Jerônimo Cardoso consolidated a normative tradition, prioritizing standardization and linguistic control. The work also highlights the changes and adaptations promoted by spelling reforms and agreements, especially those made between the 20th and 21st centuries, such as the 1990 Orthographic Agreement. It concludes that the process of grammatizing the Portuguese language reflects not only linguistic transformations, but also social, political and cultural aspects, highlighting the importance of grammar as an instrument of identity and teaching. The study reinforces the need for a critical understanding of the linguistic norm, valuing the diversity and dynamics of communicative practices in Portuguese-speaking communities.