Gender stereotypes in the traditional culture of the Nenets
English
journal number:
Journal’s Subject Headings:
History, ethnography, archeology
About author:
Arctic Research Center of the Yamal-Nenets Autonomous Okrug Salekhard, Russia [email protected]
Abstract:The aim of the article is to examine the processes of formation, consolidation and transferring of gender stereotypes in the Nenets traditional culture. Based on the previously published works of gender researchers and own ethnographic material, the author examines the ethnic stereotypes as an important component of sustainable traditional culture. These stereotypes support the cultural survival and conservation of traditional culture in the processes of globalization. These gender stereotypes are reflected at the most in the Nenets folklore: yarabts (epos), nyukubts (children’s songs) and personal songs. Since the folklore is an important tool and a factor in the maintenance of gender stereotypes, it is also the most important source for research of gender issues. Despite the fact that many modern Nenets are now leaving the traditional way of life in tundra, their traditional notions of femininity and masculinity are remain. So do gender stereotypes, which perform an important function – to maintain the ethnic identity of the Nenets.
Key words: gender stereotypes, Nenets, traditional culture, femininity, masculinity, the status of folklore.
Abstract:The aim of the article is to examine the processes of formation, consolidation and transferring of gender stereotypes in the Nenets traditional culture. Based on the previously published works of gender researchers and own ethnographic material, the author examines the ethnic stereotypes as an important component of sustainable traditional culture. These stereotypes support the cultural survival and conservation of traditional culture in the processes of globalization. These gender stereotypes are reflected at the most in the Nenets folklore: yarabts (epos), nyukubts (children’s songs) and personal songs. Since the folklore is an important tool and a factor in the maintenance of gender stereotypes, it is also the most important source for research of gender issues. Despite the fact that many modern Nenets are now leaving the traditional way of life in tundra, their traditional notions of femininity and masculinity are remain. So do gender stereotypes, which perform an important function – to maintain the ethnic identity of the Nenets.
Key words: gender stereotypes, Nenets, traditional culture, femininity, masculinity, the status of folklore.
