Teaching Levi-Strauss

Claude Levi-Strauss's mid-twentieth century work in structural anthropology revolutionized the study of myth, kinship, and totemism, with lasting effects in cultural studies generally and especially in religious studies. This book provides an introduction to this revolution through generous reproductions of some of Levi-Strauss's most important writing on religion. Reactions and responses, both positive and negative, to the revolution are also included, as well as some of Levi-Strauss's replies to his critics. A general introduction by the volume editor provides a framework for understanding the historical development and contemporary meaning of structuralism for religious studies. This volume provides an unparalleled resource for teaching students about structuralism through Levi-Strauss's own essays and classic critiques of the theory.