As cavalgadas como ritual da cultura gaúcha: estudo de caso em Itaqui no Rio Grande do Sul

Abstract

The present study aims to understand the importance of the horse riding as a ritual practice in the Gaucho culture, using the municipality of Itaqui in Rio Grande do Sul as an empirical base. Through a qualitative approach, it seeks to analyze the symbolic, social, and cultural meanings attributed to these manifestations. The research is based on the premise that horse riding, in addition to being a utilitarian tool, functions as a rite of passage and identity marker for the Gauchos, supporting our investigation in the ritual dimension. The literature review addresses the historical formation of Gaucho culture, the relationship between the Gaucho and the horse, the importance of Itaqui in the traditionalist movement, and horse riding as a ritual of Gaucho culture. Data collection will involve participant observation in the Itaqui/RS Crioula Flame Horse Riding, interviews with experienced riders, and historical document analysis. The research showed that horse riding is a rich and complex universe, in which tradition, culture, and community intertwine, as modernization shapes rural communities, it is essential to recognize and preserve Gaucho traditions.