Clowns and Tricksters: An Encyclopedia of Tradition and Culture

(Hardback)

Publishing Details

Classifications

Physical Properties

Description

Clowns and tricksters are well-known figures in cultures throughout the world. In Western culture the clown conjures up images of carnivals and foolish characters in face paint. In non-Western cultures, clowns hold privileged status in religious ceremonies and origin myths. Tricksters on the other hand are identified as disobedient, obscene, disrespectful, funny, powerful, paradoxical characters in almost every culture in which they are found. This encyclopedia surveys, from a cross-cultural perspective, the similarities and differences between clowns and tricksters in world cultures. It presents each character in the context of the culture in which he or she is found.

Reviews

"This volume is meant as a general introduction to both the characters and the people who see the world through their eyes. It succeeds admirably. For public and academic libraries." - Library Journal "This interesting focus on a particular slice of cultural mythology succeeds in bringing to life the various clowns and trickster figures from around the world." - Colorado Libraries

Author Bio

K'mberly Chr'sten K'mberly A. Chr'sten 's adjunct 'nstructor 'n the Rel'g'ous Stud'es Department at Ar'zona State Un'vers'ty. She 's also a doctoral cand'date 'n the Rel'g'ous Stud'es Department at the Un'vers'ty of Colorado, Boulder. Sam G'll Sam D. G'll 's Professor of Rel'g'ous Stud'es at the Un'vers'ty of Colorado, Boulder.