Resumo

LOPEZ MENENDEZ, Marisol. The Sick Nun and the Broken Virgin: the Sociopolitical Dimension of two Miracles in Mexico City, 1917-1923. Hist. graf [online]. 2014, n.42, pp.65-96. ISSN 1405-0927.

The paper looks at two miracles reported by the faithful to Mexico's Archbishopric in 1923. In doing so, it sets parameters to interpret the miraculous as a social phenomenon that consolidates social identities, legitimates religious communities and shifts political ranks and hierarchies. The piece puts forward an argument for understanding miracles on sociological and historical grounds, and attempts to explain two of the most conspicuous features of miracles: the need for public acknowledgement and the role of prayers.

Palavras-chave : México; siglo XX; catolicismo; milagros; Mexico; Twentieth Century; Catholicism; Miracles.