Gender, Violence, and Piety: Performance of Masculinity in Colonial Potosi
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Authors
Kuchler, Anatilde Monica
Issue Date
2023
Type
Dissertation
Language
Keywords
Colonial Latin America , Masculinity , Piety , Violence
Alternative Title
Abstract
The Imperial Villa of Potosí since its inception was a unique place. The enormous wealth produced by the silver mines created a peculiar environment in which a heterogenous, ethnically diverse group of men congregated in search of a share of that bonanza. Those men that made Potosí their temporary home displayed an also unique form of masculinity defined by the contrasting aspects of violence and piety. This dissertation centers on the performance of such masculinity and how it was performed in Colonial Potosí. I ague that three main characteristics displayed by male Potosinos --violent behavior, piety, and gender relations-- were brought about by the Imperial Villa’s particular circumstances: a) isolation in harsh physical conditions; b) immense wealth; c) large diverse population.