Early Ethnography in the American Arctic: Tristes Arctiques

This book explores early ethnographic work in the American Arctic, focusing on the relationship between the Inuit and their early ethnographers. It draws on written testimonies from the 'great ethnographic period' of the early twentieth century, providing valuable insights into Inuit life. The chapters highlight the infiltration of lives, landscapes, thoughts, and materials, and the book is relevant to anthropologists, historians, geographers, and others interested in the Arctic region and Indigenous studies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 258 pages
Publication date: 19 October 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book delves into the early ethnographic endeavors in the American Arctic, shedding light on the intricate relationship between the Inuit people and their early ethnographers. Drawing extensively from a wealth of written testimonies from the early twentieth century, known as the 'great ethnographic period,' when scholarly interest in the region surged, the book provides a profound insight into the lives and customs of the Inuit.

By complementing the movements and observations of whalers, traders, and missionaries, the early chroniclers offered a fresh perspective on Inuit society. Their descriptions, while influenced by the cultural and societal norms of their time, have left an indelible mark on subsequent developments and contributed to a lasting understanding of human life in the Arctic.

Through the chapters, the reader witnesses the seamless infiltration of Inuit lives and landscapes, as well as the exchange of thoughts and materials between Inuit and ethnographers. This book appeals to a wide range of scholars, including anthropologists, historians, geographers, and anyone with a keen interest in the Arctic region and Indigenous studies. It offers valuable insights into the complex interplay between culture, society, and the environment, and serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of early ethnographic work in understanding the diverse tapestry of human experiences.

Weight: 670g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032416328