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Under the Kapok Tree: Identity and Difference in Beng Thought
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Under the Kapok Tree: Identity and Difference in Beng Thought Paperback - 1996

by Alma Gottlieb

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Reader reviews for Under the Kapok Tree: Identity and Difference in Beng Thought

From the publisher

In this companion volume to Parallel Worlds, Alma Gottlieb
explores ideology and social practices among the Beng people of Cte
d'Ivoire. Employing symbolic and postmodern perspectives, she highlights
the dynamically paired notions of identity and difference, symbolized by
the kapok tree planted at the center of every Beng village.

"This book merits a number of readings. . . . An experiment in
ethnography that future projects might well emulate." -Clarke K. Speed,
American Anthropologist

"[An] evocative, rich ethnography. . . . Gottlieb does anthropology a
real service." -Misty L. Bastian, American Ethnologist

"Richly detailed. . . . This book offers a nuanced descriptive analysis
which commands authority." -Elizabeth Tonkin, Man

"Exemplary. . . . Gottlieb's observations on identity and difference are
not confined to rituals or other special occasions; rather she shows
that these principles emerge with equal force during daily social life."
-Monni Adams, Journal of African Religion

"[An] excellent study." -John McCall, Journal of Folklore
Research

First line

"The Beng" is the kind of phrase that is now problematic in anthropology.

From the rear cover

In this companion volume to the award-winning Parallel Worlds, Gottlieb explores ideology and social practices amonthg the Beng people of Cote d'Ivoire.

Details

  • Title Under the Kapok Tree: Identity and Difference in Beng Thought
  • Author Alma Gottlieb
  • Binding Paperback
  • Edition [ Edition: first
  • Pages 201
  • Volumes 1
  • Language ENG
  • Publisher University of Chicago Press, Chicago, IL
  • Publication date 1996-12-15
  • Illustrated Yes
  • Features Bibliography, Illustrated, Index, Maps
  • ISBN 9780226305073 / 0226305074
  • Weight 0.6 lbs (0.27 kg)
  • Dimensions 9.06 x 6.04 x 0.49 in (23.01 x 15.34 x 1.24 cm)
  • Themes
    • Ethnic Orientation: Native American
  • Category Sociology
  • Library of Congress subjects Philosophy, Beng, Beng (African people) - Ethnic identity
  • Library of Congress Catalogue Number 96026356
  • Dewey Decimal Code 306.089