Ileana Almeida Books

The book explores the complex dynamics between Latin American nation-states and indigenous communities, highlighting how cultural practices are commodified for tourism while ancient languages and ancestral lands are increasingly neglected or surrendered to external interests. It examines the challenges faced by traditional communities in a modernizing world, where migration to urban areas disrupts cultural continuity and young people lose connection to their heritage. The narrative underscores the tension between state identity and indigenous autonomy, illustrated by the Quichua women's tapestry featured on the cover.

Exploring the rich tapestry of Ecuador's indigenous cultures, the book delves into their cosmogonic myths through a semiotic lens influenced by prominent Russian theorists. It presents myth as a multifaceted narrative encompassing aesthetic, ethical, and intercultural dimensions, while also engaging with the abstract and magical aspects of knowledge. The text highlights the enduring significance of these myths, which continue to captivate global audiences and are cherished by indigenous communities, emphasizing their relevance in contemporary discourse.