Explores the dynamics of African masquerades and mask performances on the continent, linking performative expressions to societal characteristics.

Introduction Enter the mask The study of masking Structure of the bookThe Masking Crescent: Distribution of Masks and Masking in Africa1. Mask Distribution and Theory Masking zones Theoretical approach Parameters of masking Profiles of masking societies The zebu exclusion Methodology2. What is a Mask Explaining masks: The Magritte effect A basic mask typology Bush, spirits, ancestors, and other people Masks and power Tradition, prototype and invention Conclusion3. Masks and Masculinity: Initiation Chewing the mask Separation from the mother Liminal revelation Mask and circumcision Symbols of gender: Death and food Communitas and age Masks and masculinities Conclusion4. Secrecy and Power Writing on the mask Dimensions of secrecy Initiation societies and the empty secret The sound of secrecy Ethics, society, and secrecy Conclusion5. Death and its Masks Singing at the mask Burial and the farewells Burial by masks Funeral as initiation Individual and society in funerals Masks and the second funeral Celebrating life Conclusion6. Women: Pivot of the Masks The first mask Gender domains Celebrating femininity Women dancing with masks The mask of the woman is her body Conclusion7. Masks and Politics Masks for father Masks and the history of the patriline Feasting the sultan The mask as king Initiation, masks, and regicide Masquerades and modern politics Conclusion: The Akan gap8. Masks and the Order of Things Masks in the field Masks and the adjudication of law The discourse on witchcraft Masks versus 'witches' 'Uncovering witchcraft': A mask performance abroad 'War masks' Conclusion9. Masks and Modernity Playful sharks in the Delta Theatre at Cross River The king of masks, the elephant of masks Masks for new audiences Masks as icons of ethnic identity Heritage, icon, and commodity Conclusion10. Memories of Power, Power of Memories Arrest that mask! Satire, the weapon of the weak Masquerades and the slaving state From Africa to the African Diaspora Conclusion11. Conclusion The cultural niche for masquerades A future for masks?BibliographySources for ethnographic casesPicture creditsIndex