Nomad : a year in the life of a Qashqa'i tribesman in Iran /

Beck gives a detailed, personalized account of one year in the life of a Qashqa'i tribal headman (Iran) and of his people, especially those with whom he camps, trades, and engages in politics. She places larger sociopolitical processes in the context of individual personalities, decisions, and motivations. Beck organizes the account around the seasonal rhythm of the annual pastoral cycle. Her book offers a rare and valuable "behind the scenes" look at tribal politics and will be recognized as a signal contribution to anthropology and Middle Eastern studies. It is an excellent companion to Daniel Bradburd's Ambiguous Relations (CH, Dec'90). Beck's study does not address new concepts so much as it offers a glimpse into the actual process of decision making, disputing, and adjudicating in a tribal society. Usually these issues are discussed in the abstract. Beck's approach is most welcome, particularly since the principal actor and his cohort emerge as a recognizable human beings. General; advanced undergraduate; graduate; faculty. D. G. Bates; Hunter College, CUNY