This thesis examines UNESCO's World Heritage project in Djenne, a World Heritage site in Mali. It argues that only through a thorough understanding of UNESCO's history and political structure can the ideological basis for its work be revealed. UNESCO's recent focus on intangible heritage provides a model for examining the difficulties it encounters in Djenne. Accordingly, UNESCO's move from a concentration on 'outstanding universal value' and an archival approach to cultural heritage towards a more dynamic emphasis on cultural transmission finds a resonance in Djenne. A study of the work of artisans, guides and the Festival du Djennery held in the town all reveal cultural heritage to be a negotiated practice, in need of constant adaptation to remain relevant to a population struggling to live in conditions of extreme poverty.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:bl.uk/oai:ethos.bl.uk:498422 |
| Date | January 2008 |
| Creators | Joy, Charlotte Louise |
| Publisher | University College London (University of London) |
| Source Sets | Ethos UK |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Electronic Thesis or Dissertation |
| Source | http://discovery.ucl.ac.uk/1444206/ |
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