Ancestral Presence: Cosmology and Historical Experience in the Papuan Highlands

Ancestral Presence tells the story of the Fuyuge people of the Papuan highlands, who have experienced decades of mission and government influence from centres of power located elsewhere. Through an exploration of Fuyuge myth, ritual life, and cosmology, Eric Hirsch documents the real changes wrought by colonialism, government, and Christianity from the late nineteenth century to the turn of the millennium. He demonstrates how transformation was always central to Fuyuge life, and raises questions regarding assumptions central to Western History.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 238 pages
Publication date: 01 August 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Ancestral Presence weaves a captivating tapestry of history, intertwining narratives that transcend conventional notions of the past. Within the vibrant tapestry of the Fuyuge people of the Papuan highlands, the concept of history takes on a profoundly unconventional dimension. For them, the world and its rich tapestry of history emerge from the primordial force known as Tidibe, which holds a central place in their cosmology. The Fuyuge, in their profound understanding, occupy the very center of the world, their existence intertwined with the very fabric of time. Yet, their story is intertwined with another chapter, one that reflects the influence of distant powers and centers of governance. Their mountain abode, while revered and cherished, remains a remote and marginalized outpost in the grand tapestry of history.

Through meticulous exploration, Eric Hirsch unravels the intricate threads that connect these two histories. He meticulously documents the profound changes wrought by colonialism, government, and Christianity from the late nineteenth century to the turn of the millennium. Yet, Hirsch's narrative goes beyond a mere tale of continuity and change. He reveals that transformation has always been an integral part of the Fuyuge way of life. The changes brought about by missionaries and government agents were not mere external impositions but rather manifestations of processes initiated in the distant ancestral past through the powerful cosmological force of Tidibe.

In engaging with debates that have resonated deeply within Melanesian anthropology, Ancestral Presence presents an ethnographically rich account of a unique world, cosmology, and perspectives on historical change. It invites readers to immerse themselves in the intricate tapestry of the Fuyuge, offering a profound glimpse into their cosmological beliefs, rituals, and ways of life. Moreover, the book raises thought-provoking questions about the assumptions underlying Western History, its worldview, and its notions of historical time. It challenges us to reevaluate our understanding of the past and to embrace the diversity of human experiences across different cultures and time periods.

Through Ancestral Presence, Hirsch invites us to explore the intricate interplay between the past, present, and future, shedding light on the profound connections that unite us all. It is a testament to the power of storytelling and ethnography, as well as the enduring relevance of cultural heritage and historical narratives. As we delve into the pages of this captivating book, we are invited to contemplate the complexities of our shared history and to embrace the rich tapestry of diversity that defines our world.

Weight: 470g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367684914