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The Power of the Mask
Celebrated on February 28, 2006
[ Carnival begins on January 6, 2006 ]
The Power of the
Mask
Although costumes and masks are essential elements of rituals
and festivals the world over, in New Orleans, disguise has
special significance. To "mask" connotes transformation - a new
face and attire allows an individual to transcend everyday life,
to escape the prosaic and immerse him- or herself in the magic
and power of Mardi Gras. A gallery devoted to masking
illustrates how this phenomenon manifests itself in various
cultural groups. Although disguise was associated with Carnival
early on, attempts to selectively restrict and discourage it
lasted well into the twentieth century. Historical documents
reveal officials believed political unrest and slave rebellion
would result from the anonymity afforded by masking. And,
despite the fact that costuming was an essential element of
organized activities by the late 1900s, street masking was
frowned upon for adults, especially women. |
