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Chanting Down the New Jerusalem

Calypso, Christianity, and Capitalism in the Caribbean

Francio Guadeloupe author

Format:Paperback

Publisher:University of California Press

Published:16th Jan '09

Currently unavailable, and unfortunately no date known when it will be back

Chanting Down the New Jerusalem cover

In this brilliantly evocative ethnography, Francio Guadeloupe probes the ethos and attitude created by radio disc jockeys on the binational Caribbean island of Saint Martin/Sint Maarten. Examining the intersection of Christianity, calypso, and capitalism, Guadeloupe shows how a multiethnic and multireligious island nation, where livelihoods depend on tourism, has managed to encourage all social classes to transcend their ethnic and religious differences. In his pathbreaking analysis, Guadeloupe credits the island DJs, whose formulations of Christian faith, musical creativity, and capitalist survival express ordinary people's hopes and fears and promote tolerance.

"Chanting Down the New Jerusalem is a welcome addition to the anthropological literature of Christianity, capitalism, and nationalism." Religion & Society "Incisive and vibrant... The people of Sint Maarten and Saint Martin ... came alive on every turn of a page." Black Theology "A first-rate study notable for its straightforward treatment of issues surrounding national identity, tourism, and development." -- Stephen D. Glazier Church History Stds In Christiany And Culture "A rich, vivid and colourfully written ethnography." -- Heidi Harkonen Suomen Antropologi: J Finnish Anthro Soc "An original contribution to the study of Caribbean religions." New West Indian Guide / NWIG

ISBN: 9780520254893

Dimensions: 229mm x 152mm x 18mm

Weight: 454g

272 pages