Description

Title: The Mardudjara Aborigines: Living the Dream in Australia's Desert
Author/Publisher: Robert Tonkinson, Harcourt College Publishers
Publication Year: 1978
Format: 124-page Illustrated Trade Paperback

The Mardudjara Aborigines: Living the Dream in Australia’s Desert is a non-fiction anthropological study by Robert Tonkinson, first published in 1978 and part of the Case Studies in Cultural Anthropology series. The book is an in-depth ethnographic account of the traditional life, kinship, and cosmology of the Mardudjara Aboriginal group of the Western Desert. Tonkinson's work is considered a significant text for its detailed documentation of a society living in a highly traditional state at the time of study. This paperback is an essential resource for students and academics in Australian Indigenous studies and anthropology.

Synopsis

Published in 1978 by Harcourt College Publishers, Robert Tonkinson's 'The Mardudjara Aborigines: Living the Dream in Australia's Desert' stands as a pivotal ethnographic study within the esteemed 'Case Studies in Cultural Anthropology' series.

This insightful non-fiction work provides a detailed examination of the Mardudjara people, an Aboriginal group residing in the remote Western Desert of Australia. Tonkinson meticulously documents their traditional life, exploring the intricate social structures, spiritual beliefs, and unique adaptations that have enabled their sustained existence in such a challenging environment.

• A Deep Dive into Desert Culture: The book offers an in-depth look at the daily lives, kinship systems, and ceremonial practices of the Mardudjara, revealing the profound connection between their culture and the Australian desert landscape.
• Anthropological Significance: As part of the renowned 'Case Studies in Cultural Anthropology' series, Tonkinson's research contributes significantly to the understanding of Indigenous societies, presenting valuable primary data and analysis for students and scholars alike.
• Visual Context: Enhanced by illustrations, the narrative is brought to life with visual aids that offer further insight into the material culture and environment of the Mardudjara Aborigines.

A compelling and essential read for anyone interested in Australian Aboriginal cultures, ethnography, or the history of anthropological research, this volume remains a respected reference work in its field.

Condition

This item has been professionally inspected and is in Acceptable condition. Please refer to the photographs for detailed visual assessment.

Specifications