Virgin Mary across Cultures: Devotion among Costa Rican Catholic and Finnish Orthodox Women

This book explores the relationship between women and the Virgin Mary in two different cultural and religious contexts, comparing how these relationships have been analyzed and explained on a theological and sociological level. It combines ethnographic research with theological and ethnographic methods to create a feminist Marian theology that is attentive to womens lived religious practices and theological thinking.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 188 pages
Publication date: 31 March 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate and multifaceted relationship between women and the Virgin Mary in two distinct cultural and religious contexts. It explores the diverse ways in which these relationships have been analyzed and interpreted from a theological and sociological perspective, shedding light on the complex dynamics at play. The figure of the Virgin Mary holds a contentious place in modern culture, evoking contrasting interpretations among individuals. To some, she represents religious oppression, while to others, she serves as a source of unwavering comfort and empowerment.

Drawing upon extensive ethnographic research conducted among Catholic Costa Rican women and Orthodox Finnish women, the author intricately weaves their experiences with Mary into the tapestry of folklore and popular religion materials prevalent in each culture. This study not only employs diverse social and religious frameworks but also critically examines how feminists have misconceived the significance of Mary for women. By seamlessly combining theological and ethnographic methodologies, the book emerges as a pioneering feminist Marian theology that is deeply attentive to the lived religious practices and theological reflections of women.

This study offers a unique ethnographically informed perspective on women's religious encounters with Mary, making it an invaluable resource for scholars engaged in the fields of religious studies, theology, gender studies, Latin American studies, anthropology of religion, and folklore studies. It provides a profound exploration of the multifaceted ways in which women have interacted with the Virgin Mary throughout history and across cultures, contributing to our understanding of the complex interplay between religion, gender, and cultural identities.

Weight: 376g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367786120