Across the Great Divide: Journeys in History and Anthropology

Across the Great Divide explores the interactions between history and anthropology, offering critiques of scholarly wisdom about Oceania and exploring the paradoxes of knowing indigenous pasts through colonial texts.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 380 pages
Publication date: 13 June 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Across the Great Divide, a Pacific historian delves into a captivating and nuanced exploration of the intersections between History and Anthropology, heralding a series of groundbreaking experiments that intertwine the theories and practices of both disciplines. This comprehensive collection comprises revised and newly crafted essays, offering systematic critiques of prevailing scholarly understandings of Oceania. These essays are interconnected by reflexive commentaries that engage with contemporary postcolonial concerns, creating a rich tapestry of insights. Within this diverse yet coherent narrative, a particular critical focus emerges on the paradoxes and politics inherent in the endeavor of understanding indigenous pasts through the lens of colonial texts. Through a rich array of ethnographic and historical narratives, the book sheds light on the intricate interplay of power, culture, and identity in colonial encounters in Island Melanesia. Each essay contributes to a deeper understanding of the complexities and ramifications of this historical period, fostering a nuanced appreciation for the enduring legacies of colonialism. This thought-provoking exploration invites readers to engage in a critical dialogue and reevaluate our understanding of the past, while also providing valuable insights into the ongoing challenges and opportunities of postcolonialism in the Pacific region.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032340395