Samba-Enredo 2020 - O Santo e o Rei: Encantarias de Sebastião

The samba-enredo 'O Santo e o Rei: Encantarias de Sebastião' by G.R.E.S Paraíso do Tuiuti is a rich tapestry of Brazilian culture, history, and spirituality. The song pays homage to Dom Sebastião, a Portuguese king who disappeared in battle and became a legendary figure in Brazilian folklore. Every January 20th, the song tells us, people light candles for him in altars and terreiros, blending Catholic and Afro-Brazilian spiritual practices. This date is significant as it marks the feast day of Saint Sebastian, who is also venerated in Brazil.

The lyrics weave a narrative of Dom Sebastião's mythical return, portraying him as a figure who transcends time and space. He is described as wandering through deserts and seas, a 'grain of sand' with no future or past. This imagery evokes the idea of eternal wandering and the hope of his return, a theme deeply rooted in Sebastianism, a messianic belief that Dom Sebastião would return to save Portugal and its colonies. The song also references the 'bumba-meu-boi,' a traditional Brazilian folk play, suggesting that Dom Sebastião's spirit has been reborn in various cultural forms.

The song also celebrates Rio de Janeiro, invoking the city's vibrant culture and spiritual guardians. Oxossi, the orixá of beauty and nature, is hailed as the protector of this 'aquarela' or watercolor city. The lyrics mention Orpheus playing lyres in the favelas, blending Greek mythology with Brazilian reality, and calling for Saint Sebastian's protection over the city's struggles. The repeated refrain about the cortejo, or procession, climbing the Morro do Tuiuti to honor Sebastião, emphasizes the communal and celebratory nature of this tribute, blending reverence with festivity.