The presence of the past in the Cajun country Mardi Gras

Article Abstract:

The Mardi Gras of Basile, Louisiana shows how past and present combine in a Cajun country festival. Accounts of current participants can be compared to memories of elders, contrasting past horseback processions with modern ones. A tradition of charity is continued, and some revelers believe Mardi Gras originated with French beggars, thus players now beg for food. The most noteworthy change from old times is a lack of begging at nursing homes and a change to pure entertainment of the elders.

Carnival (Festival), Myths and legends, Cajuns

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Religion and politics in the John Frum Festival, Tanna Island, Vanuatu

Article Abstract:

The John Frum Festival on Tanna Island, Vanuatu shows a mixture of religion and politics in the modern cargo cult. The John Frum cult arose in response to American occupation during World War Two, with nativist religion incorporating the idea of a wealth-giving culture hero who would come from afar and restore local autonomy. Some modern residents of Tanna resent their Melanesian government as if it were a colonial ruler, and hope for visits from foreigners bearing gifts.

Folklore, Fairs and festivals, Nationalism, Vanuatu, Cargo movement, Cargo cults, Folklore and nationalism

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Some uses of numbers

Article Abstract:

While folklorists continue to criticize the motif and type indexes used to categorize folktales, most would agree that the work of Stith Thompson has produced a valuable means of surveying and accessing the stories. Thompson was well aware of the pitfalls of his catalogues and painstakingly qualified his conclusions against challenge.

Criticism and interpretation, Literary themes, Folk literature, Thompson, Stith

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