Breaking Down What It Means to Be Brazilian

The "cordial man" is considered to be essential to understanding Brazilian culture and what it means to be Brazilian. In the Roots of Brazil, Sérgio Buarque de Holanda has been attributed to the popularization of this concept. The author describes the cordial man as someone who removes all restraints or "protective mechanisms" in exchange for "proximity of bodies and souls" (pg 11). According to the latin dictionary, "cordial" means "of the heart," which can lead to the conclusion that the “cordial man” is someone who is guided by their heart. While they love and often project the feeling of intimacy and friendship, feelings of hostility also stem from the heart – there are two sides to the coin. Taking this concept further, one could say that instead of being ruled by reason, Brazilians are led more by the heart. When discussing this concept with a Brazilian, they made the simple comparison of how they act as a driver. They would politely give another driver the right of way if they act cordially, but if they disrespectfully forced their way in front, this individual claimed their gut reaction might be to act violently or irrationally.

Rather early on into this trip, I personally experienced this emotional side of Brazilians. Brazilians appeal to your emotions through the innate craft of creating intimacy and social pressure. Our Brazilian caretakers – Tiago and Vanessa – immediately warmed up to us. Their contagious smiles and warm touch make it impossible to dislike them or not unload your problems onto them. Furthermore, it is difficult for them to shed their politeness, although their concern or enjoyment can so easily be read on their faces. Tiago and Vanessa were the first evidence of the “cordial man” concept. My first interactions with either of them led me to learn enormous amounts of details about their personal life, goals and hobbies. They seemingly thrive in the roles as leaders of a foreign group – overwhelmed in this strange and new culture – and obviously feel very comfortable in social situations. As members of an individualistic culture, Americans at time need breaks from the constant social interaction. However, this is quiet difficult as we are together at every minute of our day, whether in class or on our frequent excursions

One example of this cultural manifestation was when dancing Samba at a local club was deemed an optional activity. Many of us were exhausted from the constant interaction and knew this would not be our last chance to try Samba. A few of us opted to explore other parts of São Paulo instead and waited to delicately break it to our Brazilian leaders. When we conveyed this to Tiago and his wife, they were unable to hide the disappointment and lack of approval from their faces. They teasingly pointed out that we would be missing out and put on a show of fake anger. Despite their humor, it became clear that they took it personally. Moreover, I noticed that Brazilians are sensitive to how foreigners perceive their country and culture. To me, this was a manifestation of the “cordial man,” where Brazilians are eager for us to experience every aspect of their culture and love it as much as they do.  Despite their frequent interactions with the typical, private American, they cannot shed their Brazilian skin.