To dance Bembe: an anthropological process approach (Contramaestre, Santiago de Cuba)

Abstract

Literature on Afro-Cuban religions has shown a preferential interest in historic relations and spreading, in syncretism or in the metaphysics of rituals, often studied fragmentarily. This text, from southwest Cuban Bembe, insists on the need for a dynamic analysis of ritual processes, from a performative approach. The author shows through symbolic practices, perceptions and cultural meanings conferred by the ritual actors/actresses, how different religious systems are remade by the latter by means of a highly creative cultural bricolage activity within an increasing globalization framework.