Behind the Masks of Modernism

Stretching beyond the Western canon and the literary scope of the field, this volume reconsiders what “modernism” means by exploring numerous local expressions of modernity around the globe. The contributors challenge popular assumptions about what modernism looks like and what modernity is. Stretching beyond the Western canon and the literary scope of the field, this volume reconsiders what ""modernism"" means by exploring numerous local expressions of modernity around the globe. Masks - both literal and metaphorical - play a role in each of these artistic ventures, from Brazilian music to Chinese film to Nigerian masquerade performance. These case studies show how masks enable diverse artists and communities to grapple with deep societal transformations caused by modern transnational forces. The contributors challenge popular assumptions about what modernism looks like and what modernity is.