Brazilian Carnival Essay

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Name: Madison, Andrew A Instructor: Professor Finn Class: Latin Date: November 12, 2011 Cultural Exploration #1 - Carnival Carnival (carnaval) is one of the most significant traditions and cultures of Brazilian society. It is believed that “in carnival, laughter and excess push aside the seriousness and the hierarchies of “official” life” (Elliot, 1999, p.129). Carnival is a Brazilian people’s way of escaping from their socio-economic conditions because they are able to spread their freedom and forget their difficulties and poverty. It is argued that “in a city driven by poverty, Carnival represents a moment of freedom and release, when the aspirations of cariocas can be expressed in music, dances and songs” (Boyanova, 2002, par.2). Carnival includes different amenities, spectacular events, and rides that can accommodate hundreds of people. Since Carnival happens only once a year, Brazilians make sure that they are able to experience this tradition—to at least release their socio-economic anxieties and stresses. Carnival is a place of equality and freedom. It means that everyone has the opportunity to do everything they want even just for a few weeks. Marshall Eakin (1998) argues that “carnival brings together the starkly contrasting yet deeply intertwined dualities of Brazilian life: rich and poor, African and European, Catholic and Spirits, male and female” (p. 143) because in carnival, “connections to family responsibilities, the social hierarchy, and sex roles can be severed in a world turned upside down. Each and every Brazilian has the opportunity to live his or her fantasy” (Eakin, 1998, p.143). This proves that Brazilian carnival is a place of fantasy and liberty that common people are not able to experience throughout the year. Since everyone can experience joy and laughter in their carnival, Brazilians look at this place as
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