Unity and Difference in Andean Songs
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Authors
Pigott, Charles Maurice
Abstract
This essay explores the concepts of “unity” and “difference” in Andean songs. The verses pertain to the Masha ritual enacted annually in Mangas, central Peru, and combine Quechua (the indigenous language) with Spanish. Through detailed exegesis of the texts, this essay argues that, far from being irreconcilable, “unity” and “difference” are best understood as mutually informing since the recognition of difference opens up the parameters of potential exchange. This optic is informed by a worldview that emphasizes “relation” over “entities.”
Description
Keywords
folk literature, folk poetry, folk song, Andean Indians, Peru, unity, difference
Journal Title
Oral Tradition
Conference Name
Journal ISSN
1542-4308
1542-4308
1542-4308
Volume Title
28
Publisher
Project MUSE
Publisher DOI
Sponsorship
The research involved in this essay was generously supported by the Arts and Humanities Research Council (United Kingdom).