O Senhor Dom Miguel I, E a Senhora Dona Maria Iicomparações, Reflexões, Desengano

''O senhor Dom Miguel I, e a senhora Dona Maria II'' by João Augusto Novaes Vieira is a historical account written in the early 1850s. The book presents a detailed comparison between two significant figures in Portuguese royal history: Dom Miguel I, a controversial king, and Dona Maria II, his niece and a constitutional monarch. The author reflects on their contrasting reigns, highlighting themes of governance, morality, and public perception in a tumultuous period for Portugal. The text primarily consists of comparisons and reflections that depict Dom Miguel I in a heroic light as a figure committed to Portugal’s welfare, while portraying Dona Maria II as a ruler who, according to the author, has succumbed to the influence of foreign entities and corrupt advisers. Vieira discusses various instances of their governance, characterizing Dom Miguel’s legacy as noble and selfless, juxtaposed with critiques of Dona Maria’s perceived failures and moral weaknesses. The narrative serves both as a defense of Dom Miguel’s reputation and a scathing commentary on the political machinations surrounding Dona Maria’s rule, reflecting the polarized sentiments of the time.