Southern folklife is the heart of southern culture. Looking at
traditional practices still carried on today as well as at aspects
of folklife that are dynamic and emergent, contributors to this
volume of
The New Encyclopedia of Southern Culture examine a
broad range of folk traditions.
Moving beyond the traditional view of folklore that situates it in
historical practice and narrowly defined genres, entries in this
volume demonstrate how folklife remains a vital part of
communities' self-definitions. Fifty thematic entries address
subjects such as car culture, funerals, hip-hop, and powwows. In 56
topical entries, contributors focus on more specific elements of
folklife, such as roadside memorials, collegiate stepping,
quinceanera celebrations, New Orleans marching bands, and
hunting dogs. Together, the entries demonstrate that southern
folklife is dynamically alive and everywhere around us, giving
meaning to the everyday unfolding of community life.