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Defending Digital Freedom
March 12 is Against Internet Censorship Day, a day dedicated to defending freedom of expression in the digital environment and combating online repression imposed by governments and authoritarian entities.
Created in 2008 by the organization Reporters Without Borders (RSF), the aim of the day is to denounce restrictions on access to information and highlight the importance of a free and accessible internet for all. In many countries, digital censorship prevents journalists, activists and citizens from expressing themselves freely, making it difficult to share information on political, social and economic issues.
On World Day Against Internet Censorship, several human rights organizations promote campaigns, reports and debates on the challenges faced by countries where internet access is controlled. The day also reinforces the need to protect digital privacy and combat excessive surveillance by governments and corporations.
The fight for online freedom continues to be an urgent issue, as new forms of censorship and restrictions emerge in different parts of the world. March 12 serves as a reminder of the importance of an open, plural and democratic internet. know more
The Origin of Sports in the World
Sports have been with humanity since ancient times. Records indicate that ancient civilizations, such as the Egyptians and Sumerians, already practiced physical activities for leisure and military training. In Ancient Greece, the Olympic Games, which began in 776 BC, consolidated sports competition, highlighting events such as running and wrestling. With the fall of the Roman Empire, sports lost ground, but were reborn in the Modern Age. In the 19th century, European countries standardized rules and created federations, promoting sports such as soccer and athletics. Today, sports are a global phenomenon, promoting health, culture and unity among nations. know more
The Anime That Conquered Generations
In 2021, Jujutsu Kaisen not only won over audiences worldwide with its huge success, but also played a crucial role in popularizing the shonen genre among the younger generation in a new way. An interesting fact that many don't know is that the design of the protagonist Yuji Itadori was inspired by the style of the manga's author, Gege Akutami. The author drew Yuji with simpler, more "human" features, seeking to create a closer connection with the audience, making it easier for them to identify with the character.
In addition, Jujutsu Kaisen has stood out for an unexpected collaboration with the fashion world. Several streetwear brands have released collections inspired by the characters and iconic scenes from the series, showing how anime culture is increasingly influencing other industries, beyond animation. The growing popularity of anime reflects the evolution of how Japanese pop culture is interacting with fashion and other areas of contemporary society. know more
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A História do Rei dos Ladrões
Cassim, a character from Aladdin and the Forty Thieves, is Aladdin's father and an accomplished leader of the thieves. Voiced by John Rhys-Davies, he left his family in search of a better life, but his wife died, leaving Aladdin an orphan. Cassim became the leader of the Forty Thieves and began a search for the Hand of Midas, an object capable of turning anything into gold.
In the film, Aladdin discovers that his father is alive and reunites with him. Despite attempts to reconcile, Cassim is arrested while trying to steal the royal treasure. Aladdin frees him, but refuses to run away with him. Cassim returns to the thieves, but is betrayed by Sa'Luk. In search of the Hand of Midas, father and son face dangers, until Cassim realizes the curse of the gold and discards the artifact, causing the destruction of the thieves. At the end, Cassim attends the wedding of Aladdin and Jasmine.
The Technical Challenge by Trás do Vestido
The final scene of The Little Mermaid (1989), where Ariel appears in a dazzling silver dress, is one of the most striking and technically challenging scenes in animation. The glitter effect on the dress was created entirely by hand, frame by frame, requiring meticulous work by the animators. At the time, digital techniques were not yet widely used, which made this scene an impressive feat.
Every inch of the dress was carefully lit to create a magical and ethereal effect, reinforcing the fairytale tone of the film. The soft glow of the fabric symbolizes Ariel's definitive transformation into a human and her new beginning with Prince Eric.
In addition to its technical complexity, the scene stands out visually, being considered one of the most beautiful in the film. The effort of the animation team resulted in an iconic moment that continues to enchant generations of fans. Ariel's silver dress became unforgettable and is still remembered today as one of Disney's most magical costumes.
It's Rooster's Day
28 February is Rooster Day in Portugal, and is related to a popular tradition associated with the celebration and protection of birds, more specifically the rooster, a symbol of life, fertility and renewal in various cultures. This day is related to the rooster, but the way it is celebrated varies from region to region.
However, February 28 is traditionally recognized as the day of celebration of the rooster in the context of the agricultural calendar and popular festivals in Portugal, which is a country with strong ties to the countryside and traditions linked to nature. The date is important because it is linked to the end of winter and the preparation for the arrival of spring, when the cycle of nature begins to renew itself, and roosters are animals that, with their crowing, announce the dawn and the renewal of the day.
In some Portuguese locations, Rooster Day is marked by festivities related to rural life, including parades and parties that highlight the figure of the rooster as a symbol of prosperity and good luck. Additionally, there may be events celebrating crafts and rural traditions, especially in the North of Portugal, where the Barcelos rooster (an icon of the country) is highly valued.
Hans: The Treacherous Prince
Hans, a prince from a neighboring kingdom, initially appears as Anna's romantic interest in Frozen. After they quickly meet, he proposes to Anna, earning her trust. However, as the film progresses, he reveals himself to be a cunning and manipulative villain intent on taking the throne of Arendelle. His true nature emerges when he abandons Anna in danger and attempts to kill Elsa, shocking audiences and making him one of Disney's most memorable antagonists.
Sleeping Beauty and Its Production
The classic Sleeping Beauty (1959) is one of the most ambitious animated films ever produced by Disney. With a high level of detail, the film took almost a decade to complete. Production began in 1951, but only hit theaters in 1959, becoming the studio's most expensive animated film to date.
In addition to its long development period, the film marked the end of an era: it was the last Disney princess animated film to be drawn entirely by hand until the release of The Little Mermaid (1989), three decades later. Its visual style also stood out among the studio's classics. Inspired by medieval and gothic paintings, artist Eyvind Earle created a unique design, with detailed settings and angular lines, setting it apart from other productions.
Even after decades, Sleeping Beauty remains a milestone in animation, with its refined aesthetic and timeless story that has enchanted generations.
Madame Armoire: The Elegant Housekeeper
Madame Wardrobe, transformed into an enchanted wardrobe, is one of the most memorable characters in Beauty and the Beast. As the castle's governess, she is elegant, refined, and has a strong and caring personality, bringing an aura of dignity to the environment. Her transformation makes her an eccentric figure, but with an undeniable charm.
Before the curse, Madame Wardrobe was one of those responsible for keeping the castle in order. After being transformed into a wardrobe, she still maintains her organized spirit and an authoritative posture, although with touches of humor. She is a great friend of Madame Potts and Lumiere, always willing to help and offer wise and comforting advice, especially to Belle.
Madame Wardrobe's relationship with Belle is affectionate, as the young woman is one of the few people who treats the enchanted inhabitants with kindness and affection. As the story unfolds, Madame Wardrobe, with her maternal personality, becomes a kind of mentor to Belle, offering her emotional support in the most difficult moments.
Atlantis: The Lost Continent
Kida, or Kidagakash "Kida" Nedakh, is one of the main characters in the Disney film "Atlantis: The Lost Continent" (2001). She is the princess of Atlantis, an advanced and mysterious civilization that, according to legend, disappeared beneath the waters of the ocean.
At the beginning of the film, Kida is portrayed as a strong, determined and independent young woman, with an important role in the rescue of her hometown and its people. Throughout the story, she joins the group of explorers led by Milo Thatch, who aim to find Atlantis and reveal its secrets.
Kida has a strong connection to the sunken city and is linked to a mysterious stone, the "Stone of Atlantis", which contains the magical powers that power the city. As the film unfolds, she begins to discover more about her legacy and the responsibilities she bears as a princess, while fighting to save her people and preserve the culture of Atlantis.
She is one of Disney's most iconic female characters, known for her leadership, courage and intelligence. Her appearance includes long silver hair and traditional clothing from her culture, as well as a symbolic tattoo on her face. Throughout the film, Kida also becomes closer to Milo, with whom she develops a relationship of friendship and affection.
The Explorer Who Gave America His Name
Amerigo Vespucci (1454–1512) was an Italian navigator and explorer whose voyages to the New World helped redefine the geographical understanding of the time. Unlike Christopher Columbus, who believed he had reached Asia, Vespucci realized that the lands he had discovered were in fact a continent unknown to Europeans. His expeditions between 1499 and 1502 were crucial to this revelation.
In his letters, Vespucci described the new lands and peoples in great detail, convincing the cartographer Martin Waldseemüller to name the continent "America" in his honor on the 1507 map. This designation became popular, cementing Vespucci in history.
Despite some controversy over the authenticity of his accounts, his influence on the understanding of the New World was undeniable. Vespucci also played an important role in the Spanish House of Contracting, helping to organize expeditions.
His legacy lives on, and he is recognized as one of the great names of the Age of Discovery.
Live-Action 'Snow White'
Walt Disney Studios has confirmed the premiere of the highly anticipated live-action Snow White. The production, directed by Marc Webb and written by Greta Gerwig and Erin Cressida Wilson, promises to bring a new approach to the 1937 classic, based on the Brothers Grimm tale.
Actress Rachel Zegler will play Snow White, while Gal Gadot will play the iconic Evil Queen. Zegler's casting has sparked heated debates on social media, raising questions about representation and fidelity to the source material. In addition, the film will feature a new character, Jonathan, played by Andrew Burnap, described as a love interest for the protagonist.
Since its announcement, the production has faced challenges and controversies. The first official trailer for the film generated more than a million "dislikes" on YouTube, highlighting the dissatisfaction of part of the public with the changes to the classic story. Despite the criticism, Disney continues to bet on modernizing its narratives, seeking to include contemporary themes and increase diversity in the cast.
Cinderella: The Origin and Curiosities
Cinderella is one of the most famous fairy tales in the world, but few know that its origins date back more than two thousand years. The first known version appeared in China around the 9th century, with the story of Ye Xian, a kind young girl who receives magical help to escape the tyranny of her stepmother. In the 17th century, the French writer Charles Perrault popularized the Western version that we know today, including iconic elements such as the fairy godmother, the pumpkin carriage and the glass slipper. Later, the Brothers Grimm retold the story in a darker version, where the evil stepsisters even mutilate their own feet to fit into the shoe.
The most famous adaptation came with the Disney animation, released in 1950, which cemented Cinderella as a pop culture icon. The film was a huge success, saving Disney Studios from bankruptcy after World War II. Interestingly, the dress transformation scene was one of Walt Disney's favorites and required innovative animation techniques.
The glass slipper is one of the most striking details in the story, but its choice may have come from a translation error. Some scholars believe that Perrault intended to describe squirrel-skin shoes ("vair"), but the word was confused with "verre" (glass). Regardless, the glass slipper has become a symbol of magic and hope.
Mufasa: The Lion King
premiered in December 2024, exactly 30 years after the release of the 1994 animated classic. Directed by Barry Jenkins, winner of the Oscar for "Moonlight", the film explores the origins of Mufasa, revealing his journey from an orphaned cub to king of the Pride Lands. The narrative also delves into the complex relationship between Mufasa and his brother, Scar, providing context for the rivalry that culminates in the events already known to the public. The production stands out for its use of advanced animation technology, presenting a hyper-realistic aesthetic that accurately recreates the African savannah. However, critics point out that this realism can limit the expressiveness of the characters. The soundtrack was handled by Lin-Manuel Miranda, who composed new songs while respecting the musical legacy of the franchise. Interestingly, Beyoncé's daughter, Blue Ivy Carter, lends her voice to the character Kiara, Simba's daughter, connecting generations of artists to the saga. In addition, the film addresses contemporary themes, such as migration management and responsible leadership, reflecting relevant social and political issues. Despite expectations, some critics suggest that the production lacks the magic present in the original animation, highlighting the difference between authentic art and technological advances.
Tsunami: Giant Wave
Tsunamis are giant waves formed in the ocean due to underwater disturbances, such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, landslides and even asteroid impacts. Unlike common waves caused by wind, tsunamis are generated by the abrupt displacement of a large mass of water.
How is a Tsunami Formed?
Initial Event – An underwater earthquake is the most common cause of tsunamis. When there is a sudden movement in the Earth's crust under the ocean, the ocean floor can rise or sink, displacing huge volumes of water.
Wave Propagation – After the water has moved, seismic waves spread rapidly in all directions, reaching speeds of up to 800 km/h in the open sea.
Increase in Height – In the open sea, waves can be just a few centimeters high and go unnoticed. However, as they approach the coast, where the depth decreases, the speed slows down and the accumulated energy causes the waves to grow, reaching heights of over 30 metres.
Impact on the Coast – The tsunami hits the land with enormous force, flooding coastal areas, destroying buildings and sweeping away everything in its path. Often, there is a sudden retreat of the sea before the waves arrive, which can be a warning sign.
Playwright José Celso Martinez Corrêa
A Vai-Vai will take to Anhembi in 2025 a tribute to the iconic playwright José Celso Martinez Corrêa. With the plot The Devoured Shaman and The Bacchante Swallowing of Who Dared to Dream Disorder
, the school will pay tribute to the creator of Teatro Oficina, a symbol of resistance and innovation, located in Bixiga, as well as the former headquarters of the association.
The parade will be developed by carnival designer Sidnei França and promises an explosion of colors, art and irreverence, reflecting the transgressive spirit of Zé Celso. Vai-Vai will delve into the universe of theater, ritual and counterculture, extolling the trajectory of the director who revolutionized the performing arts in Brazil with his anthropophagic aesthetic and his search for creative freedom.
With 15 titles in its history, the black and white band from Bixiga is betting on a bold and vibrant plot to regain the top spot in São Paulo's Carnival, transforming the Avenue into a great stage for celebration and cultural resistance.
Excerpt from the Samba-Enredo:
Pois Zé, Revolução deu Oficina
Ôh Zé, Sua desordem teatral
É Zé, inspiração da Bela Vista
Zé referência... É xamã, é carnaval!...
Closed Body Willow
Acadêmicos do Salgueiro will take to Marquês de Sapucaí in 2025 the theme Salgueiro de Corpo Fechado
, written by carnival designer Jorge Silveira and scriptwriter Igor Ricardo. The red and white school promises a remarkable parade, exploring the human relationship with spirituality and the search for protection in the face of life's adversities.
The theme delves into the world of faith, bringing references to rituals, beliefs and mystical practices that span generations. With the strength of its traditions, Salgueiro seeks to move the public and reaffirm its cultural identity on the avenue.
With a strong samba and an impressive visual, the school promises a powerful parade, reinforcing religious syncretism and the connection with protective energies. Salgueiro de Corpo Fechado is already preparing to shine and win the long-awaited championship.
Excerpt from the Samba-Enredo:
Macumbeiro, mandingueiro, batizado no gongá
Quem tem medo de quiumba, não nasceu pra demandar
Meu terreiro é a casa da mandinga
Quem se mete com o salgueiro acerta as contas na curimba...
Poppy Playtime: New Mysteries and Horror
Poppy Playtime: Chapter 3, titled "Deep Sleep", has finally been released, bringing a new and chilling journey into the dark universe of the Playtime Co. toy factory.
This time, players are taken to an underground orphanage known as The Daycare, an abandoned place full of disturbing mysteries. New challenges, complex puzzles and terrifying creatures await those who venture through the dark corridors of this new phase.
New Features and Game Elements
New antagonist: This chapter introduces a new and even more menacing villain, increasing the series' characteristic climate of tension.
Dark environment: The Daycare is a terrifying place, full of secrets and clues about the macabre history of Playtime Co.
New game mechanics: In addition to the already familiar puzzles and frantic chases, this chapter adds new interactive challenges.
With a legion of fans and influencers analyzing every detail of the new chapter, Poppy Playtime reaffirms its position as one of the most popular horror franchises today.
Classics of Portuguese Literature
Portuguese literature is rich in works that reflect the historical, cultural and social transformations of Portugal. One of the greatest icons of this tradition is Luís de Camões, whose work Os Lusíadas became a landmark in world literature. The epic celebrates Portugal's maritime conquests and great voyages, and is a symbol of national identity.
In the 19th century, Portuguese Romanticism found Almeida Garrett as one of its leading figures. Works such as Frei Luis de Sousa helped shape Romantic theater and explore psychological and social drama. Social criticism also gained prominence with Eça de Queirós, who in Os Maias offered a detailed view of 19th-century Portuguese society, addressing themes such as the decline of the nobility and social contradictions.
Also in the 19th century, José de Alencar, with novels such as Iracema, created a literature that exalted Brazil and, consequently, also had a great impact in Portugal.
In the 20th century, Portuguese Modernism was represented by Fernando Pessoa, whose multifaceted work, through his heteronyms, delved into philosophical and existential questions, consolidating his position as one of the greatest poets in the Portuguese language. These works and authors continue to influence generations, being fundamental to understanding the literary and cultural formation of Portugal.
Ryomen Sukuna: The King of Curses
The fearsome Ryomen Sukuna, the villain of Jujutsu Kaisen, is not just a fictional creation. He was inspired by a figure from Japanese folklore, described in ancient texts as a two-faced, four-armed warrior with superhuman strength.
In the legend, Sukuna is portrayed in different ways. In some versions, he was a fearsome demon who ravaged lands and spread chaos. In others, he was seen as a protective hero, revered as a guardian in certain regions of Japan. This duality is reflected in the anime, where Sukuna displays both his cruelty and a strange sense of honor.
In adapting this legend, Gege Akutami brought a historical touch to the work, transforming Sukuna into the dangerous King of Curses. With his imposing presence and overwhelming power, he became one of the most striking antagonists in the world of anime.
Blockchain Vai Além das Cryptomoedas
Blockchain, a technology that initially stood out as cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin, is expanding beyond the financial market and gaining innovative applications in various sectors. Its main characteristic is the ability to offer transparency and security in digital transactions, creating an immutable and decentralized registry of information.
One of the main applications of blockchain is in supply chains, where it guarantees traceability and transparency, allowing each stage of the product production and distribution process to be securely monitored. Além disso, or blockchain is revolutionizing the area of smart contracts, which make automated agreements executed when certain conditions are met, eliminating intermediaries and reducing costs.
Another growing application of blockchain is in identity authentication, where it can provide a secure and decentralized way to verify the digital identity of two users, protecting personal data and avoiding fraud.
With its ability to improve trust and reduce costs, blockchain is consolidating itself as a disruptive technology, promising to transform sectors such as health, finance, logistics and much more, increasing the efficiency and security of digital transactions in an increasingly connected world.
Dominguinhos's first work
Sanfona Sentida is one of the most emblematic musics of Dominguinhos, one of the two greatest sanfoneiros do Brasil. Released in 1980, the song reflects all of Dominguinhos' mastery, which was innovated and lined with a unique mix of softness and complexity. Dominguinhos, who was a disciple of Luiz Gonzaga, is recognized for his unparalleled skill in music and his ability to play with a sensitivity that transmits deep emotions.
The music "Sanfona Sentida" is a clear example of the tradition of the Forró, incorporating the authentic sound of the Northeast, with the contagious rhythm and an enveloping melody that will conquer all along the generations. A sanfona by Dominguinhos, with its notes full of sentiment, transforms the song into a true first work, marked by softness, but also by emotional force.
With his exceptional talent, Dominguinhos helped consolidate and shape the Brazilian musical scene, becoming more popular and appreciated by different audiences. "Sanfona Sentida" is part of his career and continues to be one of the most sought-after and admired music genres and Brazilian music as a whole. His musical legacy remains alive and is a source of inspiration for new musicians.
O Hino Rebelde Que Definiu uma Geração
Smells Like Teen Spirit, released in 1991 by Nirvana, is one of the most iconic musics in rock history and a symbol of the grunge movement. Composed by Kurt Cobain, Krist Novoselic and Dave Grohl, the song presents raw energy, with distorted guitars and an explosive refrain that captured the rebellious spirit of the youth of the era. The curious title came from a song written by one of Cobain's friends, Kathleen Hanna, who wrote "Kurt smells like Teen Spirit", apparently referring to a popular brand of deodorant. Music quickly became a song of Geração X, reflecting feelings of apathy, nonconformity and alienation. The clip, set in a school gym, helped reinforce the grunge aesthetic and was widely shown on MTV. Despite this enormous success, Cobain expressed discontent with the fame and marketing of the band. Still, "Smells Like Teen Spirit" remains a framework for alternative rock and continues to influence new generations.
Brazilian Pantanal
The Pantanal is the largest open plain in the world, covering an area of about 150,000 km², mostly in Brazil, but also extending to Bolivia and Paraguai. Its main characteristic is the alternation between dry and dry periods, which creates a unique and diversified ecosystem. During the rainy season, large areas of the Pantanal become flooded, forming vast lakes and rivers that are essential for maintaining the region's biodiversity.
This plain is one of the planet's two most important biodiversity hotspots, sheltering a great variety of flora and fauna. The Pantanal is home to more than 1,000 species of plants, 400 species of birds, 300 species of fish and 100 species of mammals. Among those who live in the region, many are on the verge of extinction, such as onça-pintada, jacaré-do-pantanal and deer-do-pantanal. Migratory birds, such as the great white heron and the tuiuiú (symbol of the Pantanal), are also common and attract ecotourists from all over the world.
In addition to its biological wealth, the Pantanal plays a crucial role in regulating climate and water quality, helping to absorb carbon and maintain water resources. Its preservation is essential for the environmental sustainability of South America.
Computerized animation course
Tin Toy (1988), produced by Pixar, was the first short computer animation to win an Oscar, marking a watershed in digital animation. Before "Tin Toy", animations were predominantly human-made, and the use of computers in animation was still a novelty. Pixar, with its innovative use of 3D animation technology, pioneered the transition to digital animation, creating a short story that mixed digital technology with an animation style that would become the basis for the company's future productions.
The short story tells the story of a tin jumper trying to escape from a naughty baby, and it impresses both the quality of the animation and the emotional depth of the story. Pixar used RenderMan animation software, which was developed in-house, to create the "Tin Toy" animation. This was the first time that the 3D animation technique was remade in such a significant way in the traditionally 2D animation world.
With the Oscar win for Melhor Curta-Metragem de Animação, "Tin Toy" not only established Pixar as a creative force in the industry, but also was a framework for the future of digital animation. This award opens the way for more technological innovations and for the success of long films like "Toy Story" (1995), or the first film completely made in 3D animation.
Konoha Sannins: Japanese Folklore
The three legendary Sannins of Konoha, Jiraiya, Tsunade, and Orochimaru, have their roots in a Japanese folk tale called Jiraiya Gōketsu Monogatari. This ancient tale, which dates back to the Edo period, directly inspired the creation of these characters. In the legend, Jiraiya is a ninja who can transform into a frog, Tsunade is a princess with the power to control giant slugs, and Orochimaru is a villain who uses snakes as his allies. These mythological figures were reimagined by Masashi Kishimoto and became mainstays of Naruto.
Jiraiya, in the Naruto universe, is a wise and powerful master, known for his fighting style involving frogs and his connection to wisdom and training. Her version in Naruto maintains the idea of a connection with frogs, but the focus is on her ninja skills and her role as a mentor.
Tsunade, inspired by the princess of legend, is a powerful medical ninja, whose relationship with slugs refers to the control of giant creatures, and her physical strength and healing abilities make her one of the most respected figures in Konoha.
Orochimaru, the villain of the story, maintains a bond with snakes and is portrayed as a ninja obsessed with immortality and power, characteristics that put him in constant conflict with his former companions.
Thus, the Sannins of Naruto are living homages to this rich mythology.
Mount Everest is rising!
Mount Everest, the highest mountain in the world, is constantly growing! Located in the Himalayan mountain range between Nepal and Tibet, its elevation gradually increases due to the movement of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates, which are in constant collision. This impact causes the Himalayas to rise a few millimeters every year.
This process occurs due to orogenesis, a geological phenomenon responsible for the formation of mountain ranges over millions of years. In the case of Everest, the pressure of the Indian plate against the Eurasian plate generates a slow but constant growth of the mountain.
However, this increase is not always linear. Earthquakes in the region can occasionally reduce Everest's height. An example of this occurred in 2015, when a strong tremor in Nepal caused the mountain to lose a few centimeters of its altitude, according to scientific measurements.
In addition to being a natural wonder, Everest continues to challenge climbers from all over the world, who face extreme weather conditions to reach the highest point. Its continued growth highlights the dynamics of Earth and how the forces of nature constantly and impressively shape our planet.
The etymology of words
Etymology is the study of the origin and evolution of words over time. In Portuguese, many words have roots in Latin, since the language emerged from the Vulgar Latin spoken by the Romans. However, there are also influences from Arabic, Tupi, African and other European languages, making the Portuguese vocabulary extremely rich and diverse.
A curious example is the word "cachorro", which today means a dog, but originally referred to the offspring of any animal. It comes from the Latin catulus, while the correct word for "dog" was canis, which gave rise to the term "canine". "relógio" (clock) comes from the Latin horologium, derived from hora, indicating something related to time.
Arabic also left its mark on the language, especially during the Moorish occupation of the Iberian Peninsula. Words such as "algodão" (al-qutun) and "azeite" (az-zayt) come from this influence. Tupi, an indigenous language, brought terms such as "pineapple", "popcorn" and "capybara", while African languages contributed words such as "cafuné" and "fubá".
Studying etymology reveals not only the evolution of the language, but also the history of the peoples and cultures that influenced Portuguese. With each word we speak, we carry a bit of the trajectory and changes that shaped the language over the centuries.
The Rio Sambadrome and Its Creator
Before the construction of the Marquês de Sapucaí Sambadrome, the Rio de Janeiro samba school parades took place in different locations around the city, such as Avenida Rio Branco and Presidente Vargas. However, as Carnival grew and the number of spectators increased, the need for a permanent venue to host the show arose.
In 1983, the then governor of Rio, Leonel Brizola, commissioned a project from renowned architect Oscar Niemeyer to create a permanent structure for the parades. Niemeyer designed the Marquês de Sapucaí Sambadrome, which opened in 1984. The space has permanent grandstands along the avenue and exclusive boxes, providing a unique experience for the audience.
The Sambadrome is not only the stage for the largest Carnival in the world, but also a space for culture and education. Throughout the year, it houses the Municipal School of Arts, known as "Sambódromo CIEP", which offers education to children from the region. In addition, it has hosted major events, such as international concerts and even sports competitions at the 2016 Olympics.
Since its inauguration, the Sambódromo has become an icon of Rio's Carnival, immortalizing unforgettable moments and keeping the tradition of samba schools alive. With its imposing and symbolic structure, it continues to be one of the most important stages of Brazilian culture.
The Origin of the Equality Symbol
The equality symbol (=), used universally in mathematics and in various areas of knowledge, has an origin that dates back more than 450 years. Created by the English mathematician Robert Recorde in 1557, the symbol arose from a simple but powerful idea: "no two things can be more equal than two parallel lines". This phrase was Recorde's inspiration to create the symbol that, to this day, we use to indicate that two expressions have the same value.
Before the invention of the equality symbol, equations were expressed in a more verbal way, which made calculations more complicated. Recorde, in looking for a way to simplify mathematical notation, created a symbol that could clearly and quickly represent this relationship of equality. The choice of two parallel lines reflects the idea of balance and symmetry, concepts that are fundamental in mathematical operations.
The equality symbol was introduced in his work The Whetstone of Witte and, over time, was widely adopted by the mathematical community. Today, it is one of the most recognized symbols in the world, not only in mathematics, but also in areas such as logic, programming and science in general, being essential in the construction and solution of equations and formulas.
Strategies for Interpretation
Difference between Simultaneous and Consecutive Interpreting:
Simultaneous Interpreting: The interpreter translates the speech in real time, usually using equipment such as headphones and booths.
Consecutive Interpreting: The speaker pauses for the interpreter to translate parts of the speech.
Intensive Auditory Training: The interpreter must develop the ability to listen and speak simultaneously, anticipating linguistic structures.
Information Segmentation: Dividing the speech into smaller units facilitates real-time translation.
Use of Cognates and Synonyms: To maintain fluidity, the interpreter may use similar words in the target language.
Efficient Note Taking: The use of symbols and abbreviations help in memorizing key information.
Synthesis and Rephrasing: Instead of translating word for word, the interpreter should focus on the overall meaning of the message.
Time Management: The interpreter should ensure that the translation does not become excessively long or disproportionate to the original speech.