Fenton, Louise (2009) Representations of Voodoo : the history and influence of Haitian Vodou within the cultural productions of Britain and America since 1850. PhD thesis, University of Warwick.

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Abstract

This thesis is the first major investigation into the representations of Vodou
within the cultural productions of Britain and America. It also opens up
opportunities for further research to be undertaken in the representations of
Vodou, Haiti and the culture and religions of other Caribbean countries.
This thesis explores the representations of 'Voodoo,' the widely accepted and
recognised term for the re-imagined religion, in Britain and America since 1850.
The history of the Caribbean and Haiti is examined before considering the
influence that the religion of Haitian Vodou has had on cultural production.
Through a historical perspective the thesis will consider the evolution of Vodou
during the horrors of slavery. The historiographic representations form the basis
of the productions and are explored to contextualise Vodou in the British and
American imagination. All genres of literature are examined, from the first
mention of Vodou in the eighteenth century through to the present day. This is
followed by an examination of the cultural reproductions of Vodou in film,
animation, theatre and television to explore the diversity of the representations.
The wider societal influences are considered throughout this work to
contextualise the productions of 'Voodoo'.
This thesis argues that the cultural reproductions of Vodou since 1850 have not
changed greatly, despite various efforts to redress the misrepresentations, they
remain rooted in colonialism. It will argue that many of the cultural productions
are reliant on previous representations. They do not in the majority introduce
authenticity, instead opting for the more sensational approach. Many of the
representations will be shown to be derogatory to the religion, culture and people
of Haiti and the diaspora. This is despite Vodou as a religion having survived,
gained strength and continuing to thrive in the twenty-first century.

Item Type:	Thesis or Dissertation (PhD)
Subjects:	P Language and Literature > PN Literature (General) B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BL Religion
Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH):	Voodooism, Voodooism in literature, Voodooism in motion pictures
Official Date:	September 2009
Dates:	Date Event September 2009 Submitted
Institution:	University of Warwick
Theses Department:	Centre for Caribbean Studies
Thesis Type:	PhD
Publication Status:	Unpublished
Supervisor(s)/Advisor:	Gilmore, John, 1956-
Extent:	xiv, 411 leaves : ill.
Language:	eng

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