Girdiiq Nu Waqab (“people of Yap”)
Throop, Jason (2019). "Girdiiq Nu Waqab ("people of Yap")". Suffering and Sentiment. Berkeley, CA: University of California Press. pp. 17–39. ISBN 978-0-520-26058-0.
- Has attachment: File:Z5RCSPNA.pdf
Abstract: The book chapter offers an in-depth examination of Yapese society, exploring its history, cultural dynamics, and the interplay between tradition and modernity through different eras, as outlined in Chapter 1, “Girdiiq nu Waqab (“People of Yap”).”
Precolonial History: This section discusses the traditional hierarchical trading system in Yap, where western islands held a higher status compared to their eastern counterparts. This system was grounded in the exchange of suffering and compassion, with the westerly island obligated to support its eastern subordinate in times of disaster.
Colonial History: The chapter conveys the complex legacy of Japanese rule in Yap, highlighting the forced labor, food scarcity, and overall hardships faced by the Yapese people. This period left many locals with mixed feelings toward their Japanese occupiers, reflected in local dances and narratives that document the suffering of that era.
Postcoloniality, Tradition, and Modernity: In postcolonial Yap, the tension between traditional life and modern influences is evident. While Western-style clothing and infrastructure are prevalent, traditional customs and structures remain significant. This blend reflects the ongoing negotiation and adaptation within Yapese society to maintain cultural identity amidst modern transformations.
Emplacing Ethnography: The chapter explores the ethnographic challenges researchers face due to Yapese values of privacy, secrecy, and knowledge distribution. These cultural facets are deeply ingrained and ensure a balanced dispersion of power and knowledge within the society. Ethnographers’ personal experiences of suffering and compassion were key to forming deeper connections and accessing layers of local knowledge.
Overall, the article provides a thorough representation of Yapese society’s evolution, underscoring how its people navigate the delicate balance of cultural preservation in the face of historical and contemporary changes
Extra details:
DOI: 10.1525/9780520945937-005 OpenAlex: W4238716812 CorpusID: 241803591
