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Iracema is a fictional indigenous Brazilian character and the protagonist of the 1865 romance novel of the same name by José de Alencar. The novel is considered a foundational work of Brazilian literature and a significant example of the Indianist movement. Iracema is portrayed as a beautiful and virtuous young woman of the Tabajara tribe, known for her exceptional beauty and her purity. Her name, meaning "lips of honey" in the Tupi language, reflects this idealized image.

The story of Iracema is a tragic romance set in the colonial era of Brazil. She falls in love with Martim Afonso, a Portuguese explorer, which is a forbidden love due to the conflict between their peoples. Their union symbolizes the birth of Brazil, a new nation forged from the encounter between indigenous and European cultures. Iracema's loyalty and sacrifice are central themes as she navigates her love for Martim and her duty to her tribe.

Alencar's depiction of Iracema is highly romanticized, presenting an idealized vision of the indigenous woman. She embodies natural beauty, innocence, and a deep connection to the land. While the character has been celebrated for its contribution to Brazilian national identity and literature, it has also been subject to criticism for its ethnographic inaccuracies and for perpetuating stereotypes about indigenous peoples. Nevertheless, Iracema remains an enduring figure in Brazilian culture, representing a mythic origin and the complex beginnings of the nation.