Shared Space

by James S. Griffith

Where it divides Arizona and Sonora, the international boundary between Mexico and the United States is both a political reality, literally expressed by a fence, and, to a considerable degree, a cultural illusion. Mexican, Anglo, and Native American cultures straddle the fence; people of various ethnic backgrounds move back and forth across the artificial divide, despite increasing obstacles to free movement. On either side is found a complex cultural mix of ethnic, religious, and occupational groups. In A Shared Space James Griffith examines many of the distinctive folk expressions of this varied cultural region.

224 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 1995

Reviews

[Nancy · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting exploration of the unique culture of the borderlands as evidenced in certain objects, songs, architecture, ceremonies, pilgrimages. The author explores the underlying cultural worldview expressed and the paradox of endurance and changes in cultural symbols.