Peter Wogan Knihy

Exploring the enduring appeal of iconic films like 'Jaws' and 'The Godfather,' this work examines how these blockbusters resonate with core tensions in American culture. By applying and expanding anthropological theories related to themes such as ritual, kinship, and power dynamics, the authors uncover original insights that connect cinema with broader societal issues. This analysis is particularly relevant for students in Film, Media, Anthropology, Sociology, and Cultural Studies, offering a unique perspective on popular movies as modern myths.

This book tells the incredible true story of Ranulfo Juárez, a Mexican immigrant. After working for years in the fields of Oregon and becoming a U. S. citizen, Ranulfo started making plans to buy a small bakery in 2005. But not knowing if the economy would hold steady, Ranulfo examined his dreams every morning in search of secret clues foretelling insight and a successful bakery—or homelessness. Ranulfo also enlisted author Peter Wogan, a white anthropology professor with a penchant for self-doubt, as his confidante and sidekick in this quest. Readers won’t know until the end whether Ranulfo became another innocent victim of the Financial Crisis of 2008, but, throughout, they will see Ranulfo and Peter confront naysayers and cheats, as well as their own differences and fears. Like Don Quixote , this book is comical, subversive, and inspirational.

"Hollywood Blockbusters: The Anthropology of Popular Movies" explores why films like 'Jaws' and 'The Godfather' remain popular by examining their reflection of American cultural tensions. Utilizing anthropological theories, the authors provide fresh insights into these classics, appealing to students across various disciplines.

The narrative delves into the intricate relationships between writing and power dynamics within an indigenous community in highland Ecuador. It examines how local beliefs influence the role of writing in cultural identity and authority, shedding light on the broader implications for indigenous knowledge and expression. Through this exploration, the book highlights the significance of literacy and communication in shaping social structures and community resilience.