Culture and Customs of Nicaragua

by Steven F. White, Esthela Calderon

Overview

Throughout its history Nicaragua has been plagued by corruption, social and racial inequality, civil unrest, and foreign interference. Yet despite being the second poorest nation in South America, Nicaragua maintains a rich and vibrant culture that reflects its strong Catholic devotion, diverse indigenous roots, and overwhelming zest for life. Culture and Customs of Nicaragua introduces students and general readers to Nicaragua's unique blend of religious and traditional holidays, so numerous that the country is said to be in a constant state of celebration; its growing film industry; its many styles of dance, the popular street theatre open to all bystanders; important contributions to Spanish literature, local cuisines, architecture, social norms, and more. Readers learn what it is like to live in one of Latin America's most disillusioned countries but also discover the passionate culture that defines and sustains the Nicaraguan people.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780313339943
Publisher:	Bloomsbury Academic
Publication date:	01/30/2008
Series:	Culture and Customs of Latin America and the Caribbean
Pages:	224
Product dimensions:	6.14(w) x 9.21(h) x 0.56(d)

About the Author

STEVEN F. WHITE is Professor of Modern Languages and Literatures at St. Lawrence University.

ESTHELA CALDERON is the Secretary General of the National Association of Women Writers in Nicaragua.

Table of Contents

Series Foreword
Preface
Acknowledgments
Chronology
1 Context
2 Religion and Religious Celebrations
3 Social Customs
4 Nicaraguan Folklore & Legends
5 Literature
6 Media
7 Cinema and Photography
8 Performing Arts
9 Visual Arts
10 Architecture and Housing
Appendix: Calendar of Important Religious Festivals
Bibliography
Index

Editorial Reviews

The volume on Nicaragua presents a wide range of information in an evenhanded way. . . . [F]or those looking for a reference tool the text not only reviews historical events that shaped the nation, but also offers insight into gender, social, and political challenges that the people of Nicaragua face today. The authors discuss geography and agricultural realities that influence its culture, most notably its location in Central America that has made it a bridge for the migration of species and people. Included in each volume are a chronology, appendixes listing important religious and traditional events, a bibliography, and an index. (Reviewed with Culture and Customs of the United States).” —MultiCultural Review

“One useful feature found in each section is a listing of significant poets, artists, musicians, etc. for the time periods covered. The book includes a chronology of important events in Nicaraguan history and a calendar of important religious and traditional festivals. This book is recommended for readers who want to learn more about the culture of Nicaragua.'” —REFORMA Newsletter

From the Publisher