O desastre de Lisboa em 1755: poesia

by Augusto de Oliveira Cardoso Fonseca

"O desastre de Lisboa em 1755: poesia" by Augusto de Oliveira Cardoso Fonseca is a poetic account composed in the early 1880s. This book captures the catastrophic earthquake that struck Lisbon in 1755, exploring the devastation it caused to the city and its inhabitants. Through its vivid verses, the author reflects on themes of tragedy, loss, and resilience in the face of calamity. The poem narrates the chaos and destruction that unfolded during the earthquake, detailing the horrifying scenes of collapsing buildings, the panic of fleeing citizens, and the ensuing turmoil. As it unfolds, the poem also addresses the moral decay exhibited by some during the disaster, with criminals taking advantage of the chaos to perpetrate further violence. Despite the overwhelming despair, the verses climax with a tribute to the Marquês de Pombal, commending his efforts to restore Lisbon and elevate the nation from its ruins. Ultimately, the work serves as both a historical reflection and a somber homage to a city and its people confronting the aftermath of a monumental disaster.