article

Embodying colonial memories

American anthropologist96 (3) • Published In 1994 • Pages: 634-648

By: Stoller, Paul.

Abstract
This article interprets Songhai possession ceremonies as forms of corporeal knowing and embodied historical memory. Many gods in the Songhai pantheon represent foreigners and former colonial masters, whom spirit mediums mimic and parody in their trances. Possession ceremonies serve as commentary on past and present social relations, and the pressing need to address inherent inequalities.
Subjects
Observation in research
Spirits and gods
Revelation and divination
Magicians and diviners
Priesthood
culture
Songhai
HRAF PubDate
2016
Region
Africa
Sub Region
Western Africa
Document Type
article
Evaluation
Creator Type
Ethnologist
Document Rating
5: Excellent Primary Data
Analyst
Ian Skoggard; 2016
Field Date
June 1987
Coverage Date
1987
Coverage Place
Tillabéri region, Niger
Notes
Paul Stoller
Includes bibliographical references (p. 67-648)
LCCN
17015424
LCSH
Songhai (African people)