Durham Cathedral is a fully engaged participant in the daily lives of those who use it, not just a backdrop to everyday life, according to an ethnographic account of daily life in the cathedral. The book examines the processes of negotiation and change between the community and the cathedral, focusing on sound, light, time, space, building, and dwelling.

Format: Hardback
Length: 212 pages
Publication date: 13 January 2023
Publisher: Berghahn Books

An ethnographic account of daily life in Durham Cathedral explores the complex processes of negotiation and change between a community and their cathedral. The author emphasizes the role of sound, light, time, space, building, and dwelling in shaping the cathedral's significance. Through ongoing negotiations and adaptations, Durham Cathedral becomes an integral part of the daily lives of those who use it, rather than merely a backdrop to their activities. It is a place with which life happens, rather than a static location.

An Ethnographic Account of Daily Life in Durham Cathedral

This book examines the processes of negotiation and change between a community and their cathedral. Focusing on the role of sound, light, time, space, building, and dwelling, the author argues that Durham Cathedral is much more than just a backdrop to everyday life. Rather, through the constant processes of negotiation and change, it is a fully engaged participant in the daily lives of those who use Durham Cathedral. As such, it is not a place in which life happens, but a place with which life happens.

Sound, Light, Time, Space, Building, and Dwelling

The author emphasizes the role of sound, light, time, space, building, and dwelling in shaping the cathedral's significance. Sound is used to create a sense of atmosphere and to communicate religious messages. Light is used to enhance the visual experience of the cathedral and to create a sense of sacredness. Time is used to structure the daily routine of the cathedral and to mark important events. Space is used to create a sense of community and to provide a place for worship. Building is used to provide a physical structure for the cathedral and to protect it from the elements. Dwelling is used to provide a place for individuals to live and work.

Negotiation and Change

The author argues that Durham Cathedral is a place of negotiation and change. The cathedral's architecture and design are constantly evolving to meet the changing needs of the community. This includes the addition of new features, such as the installation of a new organ, the renovation of the nave, and the construction of a new cloister. The cathedral's staff and volunteers are also constantly working to improve the visitor experience and to ensure that the cathedral is accessible to all. However, the author also notes that there are challenges associated with negotiation and change. For example, the cathedral's historic architecture can be difficult to maintain and to adapt to modern needs. Additionally, the cathedral's location in a busy city can make it difficult for visitors to access it.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this book examines the processes of negotiation and change between a community and their cathedral. Focusing on the role of sound, light, time, space, building, and dwelling, the author argues that Durham Cathedral is much more than just a backdrop to everyday life. Rather, through the constant processes of negotiation and change, it is a fully engaged participant in the daily lives of those who use Durham Cathedral. As such, it is not a place in which life happens, but a place with which life happens.

Weight: 462g
Dimension: 159 x 235 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800737600