Gerald W. Creed analyzes contemporary mumming rituals in rural Bulgaria for what they reveal about life after socialismmdash;and the current state of postsocialist studies. Mumming rituals have flourished in the post-Soviet era. Elaborately costumed dancers go from house to house demanding sustenance and bestowing blessings. Through the analysis of these rites; Creed critiques key themes in postsocialist studies; including understandings of civil society and democracy; gender and sexuality; autonomy and community; and ethnicity and nationalism. He argues that these events reveal indigenous cultural resources that could have been used both practically and intellectually to ease the postsocialist reconstruction of Bulgarian society; but were not.
#906686 in eBooks 2009-11-11 2009-11-11File Name: B004LB49BK
Review
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Get on board for a great blues ride!By R. SawyerWhen a literature professor (Gussow was still working on his PhD when he wrote the book) hits the streets busking with an experienced bluesman. really interesting stuff happens on the page. A hard one to put down. in part because Gussow reminded me a bit of myself when I was younger. particularly in the area of romantic relationships. After literally being at his side through the book as he makes mistake after mistake in that department. I was very happy to learn that hed learned ... and has now been happily married for more than a decade. Whatever sort of blues fan you may be (or music fan of any type). youll love going along for the ride!1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. A buskers autobiographyBy Earl W WoodThe story of Sterling Magee and Adam was very well portrayed and included their adventures and troubles. but these events may not of been as meaningful without the background and environment in which they took place. Who could imagine a "white boy" surviving Harlem. and making great music to boot.This is an intriguing read even if you are not into music and the blues. EW Wood1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. While he is a great harp playerBy Bon DonaldsonWhile he is a great harp player. and his videos on youtube are really good instruction. this book left me wanting. It didnt pull me in like I expected. His writing is dry.
