Reconstructing identity: A study of new Muslims in São Paulo, Brazil

Shahid, Hasan

Permalink

https://hdl.handle.net/2142/16975 Copy

Description

Title

Reconstructing identity: A study of new Muslims in São Paulo, Brazil

Author(s)

Shahid, Hasan

Issue Date

2010-08-31T20:02:46Z

Director of Research (if dissertation) or Advisor (if thesis)

• Tosta, Luciano
• Rana, Junaid

Department of Study

Latin American & Carib Studies

Discipline

Latin American Studies

Degree Granting Institution

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Degree Name

M.A.

Degree Level

Thesis

Keyword(s)

• Brazil
• Muslims
• Islam
• Religion
• Identity
• Converts
• Brazilian muslims
• Conversion
• Religious conversion
• Reverts
• São Paulo

Abstract

This paper will address questions of identity that male Muslim converts in São Paulo, Brazil face after adopting Islam. Specifically, it will analyze how they place their religion into notions of what it means to be Brazilian. Furthermore, this paper will show how many of these converts use Islam as a way to reconstruct their personal identities. Finally, it will argue that by becoming Muslims, they embrace a transnational religious identity. This paper will seek to show how conversion to Islam in São Paulo can significantly influence how individuals articulate notions of Brazilian national identity and belonging to the nation.

Graduation Semester

2010-08

Permalink

http://hdl.handle.net/2142/16975

Copyright and License Information

Copyright 2010 Hasan Shahid

Owning Collections