Shamanism in Siberia: Sound and Turbulence in Cursing Practices in Tuva

This book explores the phenomenon of cursing in shamanic practice and everyday life in Tuva, a former Soviet republic in Siberia, based on extensive anthropological fieldwork. It highlights the centrality of sound in interactions between humans and non-humans and how sonic phenomena are a key part of dramatic cursing events and wider shamanic performance and ritual.

Format: Hardback
Length: 152 pages
Publication date: 29 March 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book delves into the fascinating phenomenon of cursing in shamanic practice and everyday life in Tuva, a former Soviet republic in Siberia. Through extensive anthropological fieldwork, the author has closely interacted with a diverse range of individuals engaged in cursing practices, offering a profound exploration into the lived experiences of the Tuvans. By examining the intricate relationship between cursing and shamanism, the book provides invaluable insights into the intimate and social worlds of the Tuvans. It emphasizes the central role of sound in shaping human-nonhuman interactions, showcasing the diverse range of sonic phenomena that contribute to cursing events and broader shamanic performances and rituals. These include musical sounds, sounds within words, and non-linguistic vocalizations, all of which play pivotal roles in bringing humans and spirits together.

Through its comprehensive analysis, the book sheds light on occult practices and the profound social changes that have unfolded in post-Soviet Tuva. It offers a rich tapestry of cultural insights and sheds light on the complex interplay between tradition, modernity, and the supernatural. This book is a valuable contribution to the field of anthropology and sheds light on the enduring practices and beliefs of a unique and fascinating community.

Chapter 6 of this book is available for free download as a downloadable Open Access PDF at http://www.taylorfrancis.com. The content is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Non Commercial-No Derivatives (CC-BY-NC-ND) 4.0 license, allowing for non-commercial use and distribution with proper attribution.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032156996