“A hora feminina no banco dos réus”: tratamento jurídico da conduta sexual feminina nos processos - crime de defloramento no Maranhão (1890-1940)

Abstract

This paper analyzes how to honor women, with an emphasis on women’s sexual honesty was treated in trials of cases defloration Maranhão in the First Republic, given the fact that this aspect had reinforced the logic that gender inequalities in society. Initially we discuss the changes in female behavior and their greater integration into the public space and the expansion of their sociability. Approaches the discourses of medicai and legal authorities on the rule of women in society, their role in society, especially the enlightened discourse of motherhood and female honor. Another highlight is the Brazilian civil and criminal law as well as the prevailing theories in the period that established the ideal female role models to be followed by the women. Finally, we analyze the processes of defloration-crime in order to realize the mismatch between the hegemonic discourse on female sexual honor and practice experienced in romantic relationships and / or sexual abuse of women in their "love stories." Through the speeches of persons involved in criminal proceedings, in other words, the statements of the accused, witnesses and offended, seek to understand their moral values and sexual behavior.