Abstract:
The purpose of my study is to examine the importance of the work of Queroz as a
historical source for the study of the Portuguese rule in Sri Lanka. I wish to draw
attention to the consciousness of his pride and prejudice that had affected his writing.
After examining the pros and cons of his reporting how much truth we could detect in his
writings. The study would therefore be an example of the approach that should be used
when distinguishing the essence and value of his historiography. For this purpose I would
be focusing on -
A) The person, and his background which formed his views and opinions.
B) The sources that he had used ..
1. Literary sources ie; books ,petitions and reports.
2. Interviews.
He himself had not visited Sri Lanka.
C) The book. - The temporal and spiritual conquest of Ceylon.
Consists of six volumes. Evaluation.
a) how much his writing was affected by pride, prejudice, exaggeration ,propaganda and
blind faith to his own religious beliefs.
b) At the same time the truth that comes forth through his explanations specially
regarding the behavior of soldiers and his countrymen . This becomes central theme of
his last volume.
