Product Description

"This is a book that springs from richness. . . valuable not only for anthropologists and sociologists. . . the interested but unskilled layman will find a treasure trove as well. One thing seems certain. If this book does not become THE authority for the scholar, it will certainly never be ignored. Ortiz has done himself and his people proud. They are both worthy of the acclamation."--The New Mexican

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #491061 in Books
• Published on: 1972-02-15
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 216 pages

Customer Reviews

Anthropology text offers information on Tewa pueblo culture
Aside from Jomo Kenyata's treatise on his tribe, the Kikuyu, I am not familiar with any other anthropological tribal study by a scientist who is also an ethnic member of the tribe he is discussing. For that reason alone, this book is worth wading through, although for anyone not schooled in anthropology jargon it can be very heavy going at times. Perhaps the author was bending over backwards to enhance the impression of objectivity, as his "informants" were probably either relatives or friends. However, it is a fascinating discussion of a subject that normally is not discussed with outsiders, and for anyone who is interested in Rio Grande pueblo culture, this is an indispensable volume and well worth the candle.

Good work for it's time, dated
This is generally a good read on the Tewa/Tiwa culture. You do get some insight into the mythology and ceremonies. But at the same time you feel that you are not getting into the real core of the mysticism of the Tewa people.

If this book leaves you wandering more about these people then lookup Joseph Rael in Being and Vibration or Sound: Native Teachings and Visionary Art of Joseph Rael