Significance of the Work of Queroz for the Study of Portuguese Activities in Sri Lanka

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.