The "What the Hell is This?!" Block of Rio de Janeiro Carnival
The "What the Hell is This?!" block is one of the most iconic and controversial entities of the Rio de Janeiro Carnival. Founded in 2015, this block carries with it a rich history that mixes historical, cultural, and social elements, creating a unique and questioning environment.
Complete History of the Block
Origin and Year of Foundation
The "What the Hell is This?!" block was founded in 2015, although the expression that gives the block its name has an older origin[1]. The expression "What the hell is this?!" dates back to April 23, 1500, when Tupiniquin natives sighted the squadron commanded by Pedro Álvares Cabral. The question was an expression of surprise and confusion at the presence of the Portuguese, and since then, it has become an iconic phrase in Brazilian culture.
Historical and Cultural Context
The historical context in which the block emerged is deeply linked to the Brazilian dilemma, described by anthropologist Roberto DaMatta in "Carnivals, Rogues, and Heroes"[1]. The expression "What the hell is this?!" has been used at different moments in Brazilian history to question the hierarchical nature of society and the presence of authoritarian rites.
Founders and Important Characters
Founders
The "What the Hell is This?!" block does not have a single founder, but rather a collection of people who contributed to its creation and maintenance. The expression that names the block is a reference to a historical moment shared by the indigenous and Portuguese populations[1].
Important Characters
Although there is no specific name associated with the founders of the block, the expression "What the hell is this?!" was popularized by a series of figures who used it in critical moments of Brazilian history. It has been repeated in different contexts, from the founding of the city of Rio de Janeiro to moments of political and social change.
Musical Identity
Characteristic Musical Style
The "What the Hell is This?!" block does not have a characteristic musical style in terms of a specific genre, but rather an approach that mixes elements of samba with lyrics that question social and political reality[1]. The traditional repertoire includes sambas that make references to Brazilian history and the expression that gives the block its name.
Composers and Striking Songs
The song "What the hell is this?!" is a samba that reflects the questioning spirit of the block. The samba is one of the striking songs in the block's repertoire and is frequently played in parades and events related to Carnival[1].
Traditions and Rituals
Traditional Costumes
The traditional costumes of the "What the Hell is This?!" block are created with a spirit of social and political criticism. They are designed to represent Brazilian history and culture in an ironic and questioning way.
Official Colors
The official colors of the block are not formally established, but the costumes and decorations generally include strong and vibrant colors that represent the energy and creativity of Carnival.
Territory and Belonging
Neighborhood of Origin
The "What the Hell is This?!" block does not have a specific neighborhood of origin. It is an itinerant block that parades along the main avenues of Rio de Janeiro during Carnival.
Rehearsal Locations
The rehearsal locations of the block vary, but they generally take place in the downtown neighborhoods of Rio de Janeiro, where the streets are wider and more suitable for rehearsals.
Traditional Parade Route
The traditional parade route of the "What the Hell is This?!" block is not fixed, but