Jeremy Boissevain – författare

Drawing on field research in Malta, Sicily and among Italian emigrants in Canada, this book explores the social influence of the Mediterranean climate and the legacy of ethnic and religious conflict from the past five decades. Case studies illustrate the complexity of daily life not only in the region but also in more remote academe, by analysing the effects of fierce family loyalty, emigration and the social consequences of factionalism, patronage and the friends-of-friends networks that are widespread in the region. Several chapters discuss the social and environmental impact of mass tourism, how locals cope, and the paradoxical increase in religious pageantry and public celebrations. The discussions echo changes in the region and the related development of the author’s own interests and engagement with prevailing issues through his career.

First published in 1992, Revitalizing European Rituals explores why revitalization of celebrations is taking place in communities throughout Europe. The festive behaviour appears to contradict the sober, rational conduct associated with modernization and industrialization. The contributors examine fairs, carnivals, fiestas, Holy Week, and national rituals in Britain, Poland, Spain, Italy, Malta and Greece. They have lived and worked in the communities they describe, celebrated the festivities they analyse, and have discussed them with the celebrants.

The underlying reasons for the revival are complex and examined fully. The conclusions provide surprising insights into the changes sweeping across Europe. This book will be valuable reading for researchers and lecturers in social anthropology, sociology, religious studies, cultural studies, and tourism.

First published in 1992, Revitalizing European Rituals explores why revitalization of celebrations is taking place in communities throughout Europe. The festive behaviour appears to contradict the sober, rational conduct associated with modernization and industrialization. The contributors examine fairs, carnivals, fiestas, Holy Week, and national rituals in Britain, Poland, Spain, Italy, Malta and Greece. They have lived and worked in the communities they describe, celebrated the festivities they analyse, and have discussed them with the celebrants.

The underlying reasons for the revival are complex and examined fully. The conclusions provide surprising insights into the changes sweeping across Europe. This book will be valuable reading for researchers and lecturers in social anthropology, sociology, religious studies, cultural studies, and tourism.