Chapter 35: The Portuguese Bullfight

You need to take a look at the chapter, write a summary of 1 page and write ten questions that show a connection to outside articles or materials, a link to a video conference or activity. i will send you an example of those questions. they are just to trigger discussion.


Chapter 35: The Portuguese Bullfight

Summary: This chapter of the book, Understanding Global Cultures: Metaphorical Journeys Through 34 Nations, Clusters of Nations, Continents, and Diversity, by Martin J. Gannon and Rajnandini is related to an overview of the Bullfighting culture in Portugal. Portugal was a part of Spain for 60 years till the revolt in 17th century that lead to its independence. According to the authors, Span and Portugal are similar in many ways, bullfighting is one of the traditions that adds to these similarities. Having said that, there are a lot of difference between them too. Portuguese are warm and welcoming people.

In bullfighting, the cavaleiros, who is considered and authority in the bullfighting sports has to fight a bull while sitting on the back of his horse and avoid a hit from the bull. Portugal is 97% Catholic. The society is still strictly catholic and the church still enjoys some power in the society. That is why, cavaleiros is seen asking God to protect them during the bullfight.

Portuguese society is based on a strong belongingness to families and extended families. Social and business relations are characterized by mutual trust and respect. Metaphorically, the bull in the bullfighting is considered as an outsider and is therefore, not trusted and confronted.

Lunch is the most important thing in the Portuguese society. All activities come to a halt during the lunch time and families get together to have a combined lunch. Hand-made and hand-painted pottery is common in Portuguese and can be seen utilized during the lunch time on the common dining tables.

People in Portugal love football. Even in the absence of a financial benefit, you would see many people involved in playing football at different levels starting from an amateurs level called forcados.

Video about Bullfighting in Portugal:

 

Questions:

  1. Why are there similarities between the Portages and Spanish cultures? (531)

Because Spain ruled Portugal for 60 years.

  1. What are the cultural difference between Portugal and Span? (532)

Portuguese people are a bit more calmed, more relaxed, while Spaniards are more active and noisy.

  1. How many rounds are there in Portages Bulfighting? (532)

There are six different rounds in the Portages Bullfighting

  1. How does the Bullfighting proceeds? (533)

The bullfight begins by pitting a fast bull against a horse and rider.

  1. The role of cavaleiro is the most important. What specifically that role is and why is it important? (533)

Cavaleiro role is important because he is considered as the authority in Bullfighting.

  1. What is the role of religion in Portuguese society? (534)

Religion is important in Portugal. 97% of Portuguese are Catholics.

  1. Family and Extended families are really important in Portugal. What are its social implications? (534)

A close family system gives Portuguese a sense of security. It also promotes respect of authority in the society.

  1. Trust plays an important role in Portuguese society. What is the role of trust in doing business in Portugal? (535)

Before you can do productive business with Portuguese, you have to build a trusting relation.

  1. Entire families gather at lunch time in Portugal. How does lunch brings families together in Portugal?

People close their shops and businesses to go to their homes for lunch. A big dining table is used for families to sit together and eat.

  1. Discuss the Hand-painted ceramics called Azuleijos.

These are used in Portugal for centuries. These ceramics act as Portuguese souvenirs.