Claude Lévi-Strauss’s mid-twentieth century work in structural anthropology revolutionized the study of myth, kinship, and totemism, with lasting effects in cultural studies generally and especially in religious studies. This book provides an introduction to this revolution through generous excerpts of some of Lévi-Strauss’s most important writing on religion. Reactions and responses, both positive and negative, to the revolution are also included, along with some of Lévi-Strauss’s replies to his critics. A general introduction by volume editor Hans Penner provides a framework for understanding the historical development and contemporary meaning of structuralism for religious studies. This volume provides an unparalleled resource for teaching about structuralism.
