Walter E. A. Van Beek and Harrie M. Leyten. Masquerades in African Society: Gender, Power, and Identity. Boydell & Brewer, 2023. 414 pp. Maps. Photographs. Bibliography. Index. 170. 00. Hardback. ISBN: 9781847013439.

Key Points

• The book aims to explore the intersections of gender, power, and identity through the lens of masquerades in African societies.
• Analyzes various masquerade practices across different African cultures
• Investigates the social and cultural roles of masquerades in gender dynamics
• Utilizes maps and photographs to illustrate key concepts
• Identifies how masquerades influence power structures within communities
• Demonstrates the way gender roles are performed and challenged through masquerade traditions
• Highlights the importance of identity formation within cultural performances