How to Interpret Ethnographic Narratives

Ethnographic narratives provide information on narrators and their environments.

Interpreting ethnographic narratives is a great way to gain information on a society and its members. Ethnographic narratives play a large role in the practice of cultural anthropology today. These narratives are collected by interviewing informants and recording what is said. An ethnographer can later go back and revisit the recorded narrative to gather information from what was said. It is important to suspend prejudices like Western ideals when interpreting ethnographic narratives. Biased opinions will affect how you view the narrator and his society.

Instructions

1. Consider the source. How does the narrator identify herself? Learn everything you can about her social, religious, sexual, familial and other identities before or during the ethnographic interview. If you only have access to the transcripts or video of the interview, derive as much information about the informant as you can from what was said in the interview. All of these identities and roles will have an effect on how the narrator tells her narrative as well as her view on the actions she talks about. Do not let any prejudices or stereotypes affect your perception of the speaker and her stories.

2. Consider the context. What sort of sociopolitical environment does your narrator live in? What are the events surrounding the narrative he gives? Your informant has thoughts and feelings about what goes on it the world around him. He will convey his opinions through his narrative. Make sure that you are as aware as possible of the context in which the narrative was given in order to garner a more complete understanding of the narrative.

3. Consider the information. Does the narrative contain descriptions of everyday life, phenomena, politics or otherwise? If you find descriptions of mundane activities, you can get an idea of how the narrator and people like her go about their everyday lives. If she speaks about politics or social doings, you can learn about the opinions she and others hold on these matters. No information in an ethnographic narrative is worthless. You can derive meaning by paying attention and suspending any preconceived notions you have.

References

• Canadian Family Physician: Interpreting People as They Interpret Themselves