Fusion of the Worlds : An Ethnography of Possession among the Songhay of Nigeria

by Stoller, Paul

• ISBN13: 9780226775456
• ISBN10: 0226775453
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 1997-06-01
• Publisher: Univ of Chicago Pr

Summary

"This ethnography is more like a film than a book, so well does Stoller evoke the color, sight, sounds, and movements of Songhay possession ceremonies."--Choice "Stoller brilliantly recreates the reality of spirit presence; hosts are what they mediate, and spirits become flesh and blood in the 'fusion' with human existence. . . . An excellent demonstration of the benefits of a new genre of ethnographic writing. It expands our understanding of the harsh world of Songhay mediums and sorcerers."--Bruce Kapferer, American Ethnologist "A vivid story that will appeal to a wide audience. . . . The voices of individual Songhay are evident and forceful throughout the story. . . . Like a painter, [Stoller] is concerned with the rich surface of things, with depicting images, evoking sensations, and enriching perceptions. . . . He has succeeded admirably." --Michael Lambek, American Anthropologist "Events (ceremonies and life histories) are evoked in cinematic style. . . . [This book is] approachable and absorbing--it is well written, uncluttered by jargon and elegantly structured."--Richard Fardon, Times Higher Education Supplement "Compelling, insightful, rich in ethnographic detail, and worthy of becoming a classic in the scholarship on Africa."--Aidan Southall, African Studies Review

Author Biography

Elizabeth A. Kaye specializes in communications as part of her coaching and consulting practice. She has edited Requirements for Certification since the 2000-01 edition.

Table of Contents

Prologue

Acknowledgments

Personae

Looking for Serci

Organization of the Possession Troupe

Zimas from Tillaberi

Gusabu's Mediums

Praise-Singers from the River

Cries of the Violin, Rhythms of the Drum

Theaters of Songhay Experience

Rain Dance: Rites of the Ancestors

Horrific Comedy: The Hauka Part Three: Possession in a Changing World

Sexual Comedy: The Sasale

Two Mouths, Two Hearts Epilogue: Fusion of the Worlds

Notes

Glossary

References

Index

Table of Contents provided by Publisher. All Rights Reserved.