Facets of a Harmony: The Roma and Their Locatedness in Eastern Slovakia

Jan Ort's anthropological research focuses on a Slovak village in eastern Slovakia, challenging the notion of harmonious coexistence between ethnically and linguistically diverse inhabitants. He explores historical shifts, inequality, and hierarchies, as well as examples of subversion and resistance, leading to the question of who is a local in the village.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 222 pages
Publication date: 14 October 2022
Publisher: Karolinum,Nakladatelstvi Univerzity Karlovy,Czech Republic

In this groundbreaking contribution to contemporary Romani studies, Jan Ort delves deep into the ethnographic exploration of a singular Slovak village, renowned for its purported harmonious coexistence of diverse ethnic and linguistic communities. Through meticulous and in-depth research, Ort offers a critical ethnographic critique of this perceived harmonious facade, unveiling the underlying historical dynamics and the naturalization of inequality and hierarchies that shape the current relationship between the Roma inhabitants and other ethnic groups within the village.

However, Ort's study goes beyond mere critique, showcasing instances of subversion and resistance to the prevailing power dynamics. Drawing primarily from extensive participant observation within Roma families, his long-term research culminates in a captivating book that provides rich ethnographic descriptions, enabling readers to gain a profound understanding of local experiences, contexts, and divisions. These insights shed light on the complex and multifaceted nature of identity and belonging in the village, raising the crucial question of who truly constitutes a local in this context.

Ort's meticulous research and ethnographic approach offer valuable insights into the dynamics of social inequality and the challenges faced by marginalized communities. His book serves as a valuable resource for scholars, researchers, and policymakers seeking to better understand the complexities of Romani populations and the broader social dynamics that shape their lives. By examining the case of this Slovak village, Ort contributes to a growing body of literature that challenges prevailing narratives and promotes a more inclusive and empathetic understanding of diverse communities.

Weight: 298g
Dimension: 144 x 205 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9788024650685