O surgimento da "História das religiões" na Itália: a contribuição de Raffaele Pettazzoni no desenvolvimento dessa disciplina acadêmica

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the process of formation of the field of studies of religions in Italy, in a secular and non-denominational way, more specifically, the emergence of Religions History of chair of this country. In this sense, we also examined how Raffaele Pettazzoni, a historian of religions, contributed to the growth and spread of this field of study, as well as to the development of this academic discipline, which was the target of constant political and ecclesiastical interventions. In order to reach this goal, we used a methodology based on descriptive and bibliographical research, through a qualitative and historiographic approach. Based on such approach, it was possible to understand the theoretical conception of this scholar of religions and, therefore, to present the process of formation of the chair of History of Religions at La Sapienza University in Rome, as well as his thought and academic contribution. In this sense, we present a panorama of the divergences of thoughts in the academic and intellectual sphere, in a crucial historical moment for the study of the religions, when Raffaele Pettazzoni was a central figure for the institution of these teachings in Italy. Based on those studies, it was possible to understand the context of the clashes and challenges that sourrondend the emergence of this discipline. It was also possible to understand the environment in which Pettazzoni was inserted, regarding the acceptance of the religion as an academic object, and later, his contribution to the field of Science of Religion today.