THE ESKIMOS

This superb ethnographic study, illustrated by 120 remarkable color photographs, explodes the conventional idea of Eskimos as simple, primitive people. Concentrating on their traditional society, anthropologist Ernest S. Burch, Jr, and renowned photographer Werner Forman show them as not only pragmatic and highly skilled but also sophisticated in their personal relationships and their ability to live together in constrictive family communities.

The text and the photographs in this book explore the Eskimos’ art, their rich mythology, and their beliefs-their stories, their spirit world, and the role of shamans in their lives.

In this welcome ethnographic study about Eskimo and Aleut people, Burch shows that these pragmatic, skilled hunters developed a lively culture involving complex relationships. Well-chosen examples indicate the wide social and artistic variety found in the relevant regionsfrom eastern Siberia, the Aleutian Islands, and Alaska to northern Canada and Greenland. This oversize book offers an integrated presentation in the more than 120 stunning color photographs, which include shots of people, the environment, and artifacts. Though an occasional nonstandard spelling detracts (e.g., "belukha" instead of "beluga"), this is recommended. Mark C. Goniwiecha, Univ. of Alaska Fairbanks Lib.
Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc.