Abstract

MACEDO, Silvia Lopes da Silva. Xamanizando a escrita: aspectos comunicativos da escrita ameríndia. Mana [online]. 2009, vol.15, n.2, pp. 509-528. ISSN 0104-9313.  http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/S0104-93132009000200007.

The aim of this article is to analyze the use, attribution of meaning, interpretations and incorporation of writing by Amerindians. By analyzing the ethnographic case of the Wayãpi (Brazil and French Guiana) and juxtaposing it with other pertinent examples, I look to demonstrate through a comparison of writing with graphic/aesthetic practices that, along with political and symbolic functions, writing is attributed a divinatory or shamanic power with a broad communicative range.

Keywords : Graphic practices; Writing; Aesthetics; Wayãpi Amerindians; Shamanism.