Afghanistan has been at the crossroads of many cultures and
civilizations, occupying a unique place in the cultural geography
of Central Asia. Invading tribes and armies passed through ancient
Afghanistan and left their imprint on the culture, customs, and way
of life there. In recent history, Afghanistan has been the focus of
international attention since the Soviet invasion and occupation of
1979 to 1989, the brutal civil war that ensued, and the subsequent
U.S. invasion to topple the Taliban regime. As the country
struggles to stabilize and rebuild, this volume is the first to
reveal the people and ways of life that have been in flux for so
long. Emadi brings an insider's knowledge and authority to the
accessible narrative. Students and general readers will find a
clear explanation of the land, people, economy, social
stratification, and history as context for the chapters that
follow. In the chapter on Religion and Religious Thought, the
predominant Islamic religion is largely intertwined with political
events that have brought Afghanistan such attention. The
lesser-known literature and the arts are brought to light next. A
strong Architecture, Housing, and Settlements chapter highlights
many styles unfamiliar to most Westerners. Coverage of Afghan
cooking and cuisine brings a more intimate understanding of the
culture. The chapter on Family, Women, and Gender will draw readers
in with its survey of how the family works, what is expected of
women, and what courtship, marriage, childrearing, and education
are like today. A standout of the Festivals and Leisure Activities
chapter is the vivid rendering of the sport called Buzkashi, where
men on horseback vie to move an animal carcassacross a field to a
goal. A final chapter on Lifestyles, Media, and Education describes
the urban vs. rural lifestyles, the state of communications, and
the prospects for schooling post Taliban. A country map, glossary,
resource guide, and photos complement the text.
General
Imprint: |
Greenwood Press
|
Country of origin: |
United States |
Series: |
Culture and Customs of Asia |
Release date: |
June 2005 |
First published: |
June 2005 |
Authors: |
Hafizullah Emadi
|
Dimensions: |
235 x 156 x 23mm (L x W x T) |
Format: |
Hardcover
|
Pages: |
284 |
ISBN-13: |
978-0-313-33089-6 |
Categories: |
Books >
Social sciences >
General
|
LSN: |
0-313-33089-1 |
Barcode: |
9780313330896 |
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