Date of Award
5-1-2024
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Department
Anthropology
First Advisor
Dr. Steven P. Black
Second Advisor
Dr. Jennie E. Burnet
Third Advisor
Dr. Kyrah Malika Daniels
Abstract
Historically, scholars have reduced Haitian Vodou Langaj (ritual language) to African lexemes or frame it as glossolalia. Against this background, in this thesis, I examine Langaj as a liturgical and devotional language of Haitian Vodou and challenge such reductionist views. This thesis argues that Langaj should be analyzed through an Africana Religious Studies framework and a multi-semiotic perspective. By positioning Langaj as an African-derived ritual communication system, I theorize its role as a linguistic Kafou (crossroads) in Haitian Vodou specifically, and the Black Atlantic discursive space more broadly. I probe the relationship between Langaj and constructions of identity. I conclude by highlighting Langaj’s pivotal role in transmitting and preserving Haitian Vodou traditions by serving as a potomitan (vital center) and sacred repository and a method for (re)producing and transmitting traditional knowledge within devotees’ lives.
DOI
https://doi.org/10.57709/36947353
Recommended Citation
St Tellien, Alexandra, "Langaj Pale, Langaj Konprann: The Role of Langaj in Haitian Ritual Life." Thesis, Georgia State University, 2024.
doi: https://doi.org/10.57709/36947353
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