Carnivals in History

In: Thesis eleven: critical theory and historical sociology, Band 3, S. 52-59

Abstract

Pre-Lenten carnivals in history raise questions about religious, social, & biological themes: eg, are carnivals more pagan or Christian in origin, & are they more rituals than means of relieving natural impulses? Such issues are assessed in a consideration of the Carnival of Romans in Feb 1580. A content analysis of the masquerades, parades, dances, & fantasies of the Carnival of Romans is compared to an analysis of the carnival by E. Leach (Rethinking Anthropology, London, 1961) & to other southern European carnivals of the sixteenth century. Agricultural, religious, & social in nature, carnivals can be seen as an attempt to redress social wrongs as well as to celebrate fertility. 8 References. D. Dunseath.