Anthropological concept of spectacle in the network of rituals, ceremonies and events

Abstract

In anthropology, the phenomenon of spectacle is not integrally studied. Spectacle has remained on scientific margin since it was difficult to position its symbolic character in social and cultural realities. Based on past relevant theoretical guidelines, the phenomenon of spectacle can be de-conceptualized into the anthropological research problem. This implies that a new discourse option should be established in the relation ritual - ceremony - event, which is the basic matrices of spectacle. In this way, various social and cultural phenomena can be followed at different levels of spectacle performance, that is, the degree of visualization and representation. In anthropological discourse, ritual is needed so as to establish order in individual and group activities, that is, to point out direction of ritual transitions from one into other social reality. Ceremony is needed in order to point out symbolic elements, which form the metaphor of togetherness and community. Event is needed in order to create time in its linear and irreversible passage. Spectacle requires their complementary in order to express complete multi-layered ness of visual and scenic field (over)view. Then it can be understood that spectacle is not only a total imagined picture of perfect performance, but rather it is profoundly formed by the most complex relations of power, interests, hegemony, subordination and domination, wishes, needs and visions.