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Unity and Difference in Andean Songs


Type

Article

Change log

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

Volume Title

28

Publisher

Project MUSE
Sponsorship
The research involved in this essay was generously supported by the Arts and Humanities Research Council (United Kingdom).