Author Description

This book examines the life of Maria de Araújo, a poor Black woman from northeastern Brazil who in 1889 became the center of a religious controversy when consecrated hosts allegedly turned to blood in her mouth during communion. The author investigates the events surrounding these alleged miracles in Juazeiro do Norte, the scrutiny Maria faced from the Catholic Church, and why her role was largely erased from the official history, while Father Cícero gained fame. Drawing on extensive research in archives in Brazil and the Vatican, the book explores themes of faith, gender, race and power in late 19th century Brazil.