Maria Firmina dos Reis

Maria Firmina dos Reis was a pioneering author who defied the prejudices of her era. Her novel 'Úrsula,' published in 1859, is considered Brazil's first abolitionist novel and one of the first written by a Brazilian woman. She crafted a powerful narrative from the perspective of enslaved individuals, challenging societal norms of the time. Beyond her literary contributions, Reis was also an educator who founded a free, mixed-gender school that faced opposition due to its progressive nature. Her work stands as a significant contribution to Brazilian literature and the fight for social justice.