Revitalizing European Rituals

Abstract

Despite all predictions to the contrary, celebrations are being revitalized in communities throughout Europe. The festive behaviour appears to contradict the sober, rational conduct associated with modernization and industrialization. "Revitalizing European Rituals" examines why the revitalization is taking place. The contributors examine fairs, carnivals, fiestas, Holy Weel and national rituals in Britain, Poland, Spain, Italy, Malta and Greece. They have lived and worked in the communities they describe, celbrated the festivities they analyze, and have discussed them with the celebrants. The underlying reasons for the revival are complex. The conclusions provide insights into the changes sweeping across contemporary Europe. This book should be of interest to undergraduates, postgraduates and academics in the fields of social anthropology, sociology, theology and tourism.