The pluridimensionality in the Atlas Linguístico da Rota dos Tropeiros: an analysis of the names for the profession of those who make leather tools for working with the troop

Abstract

Based on Pluridimensional Geolinguistics, this study, which is a segment of Chofard’s (2023) thesis, highlights the linguistic diversity in the Southern Region and investigates, using data collected for the Atlas Linguístico da Rota dos Tropeiros (ALRT), how this heterogeneity manifests along one of the drover routes, considering the significant migratory flows and interactions between Gaúchos and Paulistas during the nearly 200 years of Tropeirismo. The study aims to: (i) present the analytical dimensions considered for the ALRT data collection, describing the methodological choices and outlining the advantages and challenges of these choices; (ii) describe the variants recorded for the issue addressed at the 12 survey points of the Atlas; and (iii) analyze plurally, through linguistic maps, graphs, and tables, what the data reveal. The Semantic-Lexical Questionnaire (QSL) of the ALRT includes 125 questions, among which question 93 was selected for this study. This question seeks designations for the profession of those who make leather tools for managing drovers and is considered a variable item across different analytical dimensions. The results indicate various ways to name the profession, with two terms being more common: guasqueiro and coureiro. Additionally, it is found that all controlled dimensions influence the linguistic choices of the informants.