Abstract
In recent decades the presence of dramatic actions in healing has been recognized and analysed through a performance approach in anthropology. Scholars have highlighted the dramatic features of healing performances around the world, and some, applying notions such as ‘catharsis’, ‘charismatic healing’ and ‘geographic healing’ to such performances, have thereby bridged the gap between theatre and medicine. The question remains as to how far such analysis can be pursued in the interdisciplinary field between performance studies and medical anthropology. Is it possible to argue that dramatic characteristics and elements are not only props in the construction of healing rites, but also essential aspects of the healing process itself? In this article I mobilize some general analytical categories within performance studies to investigate the dramatic aspects of a healing ceremony, purkhani, among Turkmen people of Northern Iran. I suggest that dramatic actions have genuine efficacy in the healing process, even though purkhani is no longer performed in the ideal traditional way.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: Anthropology of the Contemporary Middle East and Central Eurasia
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
