Vital Diplomacy: The Ritual Everyday on a Dammed River in Amazonia

Vital Diplomacy explores how ritual contains and diverts the threat of violence by reconciling antagonistic spirits, coordinating social and gender divides, and channelling foreign relations and resources in Brazil's Enawenê-nawê indigenous territories.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 302 pages
Publication date: 13 October 2023
Publisher: Berghahn Books

In the vibrant tapestry of Brazil, where lush forests intertwine with sprawling savannas, a fascinating interplay unfolds. New towns, bustling agribusiness, and hydroelectric plants coexist harmoniously with the indigenous territories, creating a diverse and dynamic landscape. Within this remarkable fusion, a unique cultural phenomenon takes center stage: the Enawenê-nawê. For eight months each year, during the enchanting season of Yankwa, the Enawenê-nawê comes alive with a tapestry of agricultural work, fishing, song, feast, and exchange. This extraordinary cycle, deeply rooted in the traditions of the Amazonian people, holds immense significance.

Vital Diplomacy delves into the heart of this ceremonial cycle, offering a fresh perspective on timeless Amazonian themes. It explores the intricate web of kinship, gender roles, manioc cultivation, cuisine, relationships with non-humans and foreigners, and the intricate interplay between myth and practice. Through its lens, the book uncovers the profound ways in which ritual acts as a powerful tool, containing and diverting the threat of violence. It reveals how rituals reconcile antagonistic spirits, coordinate social and gender divides, and channel foreign relations and resources.

The Enawenê-nawê serves as a living testament to the resilience and adaptability of the Amazonian people. It is a celebration of their rich heritage, a testament to their enduring connections with nature and their deep understanding of the world around them. By delving into the intricacies of this ceremonial cycle, Vital Diplomacy provides a valuable insight into the complex tapestry of Amazonian society, offering a glimpse into the ways in which culture, ritual, and diplomacy shape the lives of its inhabitants.

ISBN-13: 9781805391258