Estudo da Língua Brasileira de Sinais na cidade de Manaus: aspectos linguísticos políticos e sociais

Abstract

―Libras – Brazilian Signs Language is a language‖ or ―deafs have linguistic rights‖ are assertions which imply, for instance, knowledge of linguistic structure of this language and of linguistic capacities of its owners. The aim of this research is a deeper knowledge of Libra‘s vocabulary and linguistic variations. In order to obtain a better understanding of this subject, through selected accounts from deafs and their teachers, an outline of the first steps of deafs education at Manaus region was attempted. General aim was to analyze linguistic variation of Libras at Manaus, focused on the creation of new vocabulary, mainly names. In doing so, the following specific items were pursuit: investigate signs creation at Manaus; identify linguistic variations of Libras at Manaus; detect the influence of other Brazilian states on the creation of signs used at Manaus. A qualitative methodology was applied, as expected on a field research with half-structured inquiries, and also participative observation. Data collection was made simultaneously with inquiries, due to the fact this line of research allows to obtain upmost significant material not available on ordinary documental sources. As result of the wideness of the situations here contemplated, this research, besides offering first-hand information about vocabulary creation and linguistic variation of Libras at Manaus, can make possible to draw new methodologies and teaching strategies headed for Libra‘s so contributing to a better quality of deafs‘ education on this city.