Josué de Castro and the metamorphoses of hunger in Brazil, 1932-1946

Abstract

The term hunger, despite also meaning a biological sensation, is a multifaceted, historically specific concept. Like others, it transforms along with changes in society. This article examines, through the discussions proposed by Josué de Castro and its social context, the representations of hunger between 1932 and 1946, the year in which Castro published his book The Geography of Hunger. The objective is to observe the literate public space – literature, mainstream press and scientific discussions – to analyze how hunger was understood during this period and how Josué de Castro took part in this debate.