Balkan Vampires: Society, Politics, Representation (1) (Routledge Studies in Anthropology)

By: Danilo Trbojević

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Synopsis: Balkan Vampires examines how vampire motifs from Balkan folklore have permeated modern sociocultural and political realms, exploring their role in rural traditions and transformation under global influences. The book builds on extensive fieldwork conducted in village communities across Serbia, the cradle of vampire lore, where the author has been able to record numerous stories, memories, and testimonies of residents. The research reveals the vampire not merely as a mythical figure but as a potent symbol in cultural and political discourse. The chapters demonstrate that vampire narratives are not just remnants of traditional rural beliefs but are actively engaged in shaping contemporary cultural and social identities. The author analyzes the persistence and adaptability of vampire motifs, demonstrating their relevance in expressing community fears, challenging societal norms, and navigating the tensions between local traditions and global influences. Drawing on a wealth of ethnographic material, the book will be of interest to scholars of anthropology, cultural studies, folklore, demonology, history, and beyond.