article

carne, carnales, and the carnivalesque: Bakhtinian batos, disorder, and narrative discourses

American ethnologist16 (3) • Published In 1989 • Pages: 471-486

By: Limón, José Eduardo.

Abstract
An astute analysis of the verbal play and interaction, heavy in sexual allusions, of working class Mexican Americans in South Texas. Limón takes exception to the negative psychological interpretations by Mexican intellectuals who articulate a dominant class view that basically denegrates lower working class males and their culture. Rather he sees the play as expressions of respect and friendship. It is degrading only in Bakhtin's positive and regenerative use of the term, 'to bring down to earth' and give birth to something new. The article ends with Limón's own critical self-reflection on ethnographic practice prompted by an informant's parody of anthropologists and fieldwork.
Subjects
Theoretical orientation in research and its results
Observation in research
Sociolinguistics
Humor
Classes
Friendships
Sexuality
culture
Chicanos
HRAF PubDate
2002
Region
North America
Sub Region
Regional, Ethnic and Diaspora Cultures
Document Type
article
Evaluation
Creator Type
Ethnologist
Document Rating
5: Excellent Primary Data
Analyst
Ian Skoggard ; 2001
Field Date
1981
Coverage Date
1981
Coverage Place
south Texas, United States
Notes
José E. Limón
Includes bibliographical references (p. 485-486)
LCCN
74644326
LCSH
Mexican Americans