Book

Dancing histories: heuristic ethnography with the Ohafia Igbo

University of Michigan PressAnn Arbor • Published In 2000 • Pages:

By: McCall, John C. (John Christensen).

Abstract
This is a study of the Igbo of Ohafia, Nigeria using as an analytical approach the 'postmodernist' concept of 'heuristic ethnography', with its emphasis on ongoing cultural participation, methodological relativism, and careful exegesis of indigenous world view. Basically the work describes Igbo concepts of history which are expressed through song and dance. The book also contains information on the author's initiation into the DIBIA or medicine society, Igbo beliefs about their ancestors, biographical information on several native informants, and the tradtional history of the community of Akanu Ohafia.
Subjects
Theoretical orientation in research and its results
Observation in research
Life history materials
Music
Dance
Status, role, and prestige
Magical and mental therapy
Shamans and psychotherapists
Sacred objects and places
culture
Igbo
HRAF PubDate
2003
Region
Africa
Sub Region
Western Africa
Document Type
Book
Evaluation
Creator Type
Ethnologist
Document Rating
5: Excellent Primary Data
Analyst
John Beierle ; 2001
Field Date
1989-1996
Coverage Date
1989-1996
Coverage Place
Ohafia, Nigeria
Notes
John C. McCall
Includes bibliographical references (p. 176-185) and index
LCCN
99059065
LCSH
Igbo (African people)