Alvarez, Martin 1971-11-20

Martin Alvarez discusses the object, practice and belief in witchcraft in the Spanish border areas of the American Southwest.

General Interview Information

Interviewee Name: Martin Alvarez

Additional Parties Recorded:

Date: November 20, 1971

Location: El Paso, Texas

Interviewer: David Zepeda

Length: 35 minutes

Abstract

Tape 1, Side 1: Discusses practice and objectives of witchcraft, Dancing ceremony explained, Outlines the "curanderos" influence, Specific case mentioned, Cites belief in witchcraft's power to harm individuals, Methods listed for curing illness, Notes use of peyote and other drugs in Indian culture, Dealing with the credibility of witchcraft, Makes reference to Aztec culture , Character of witches and Catholic accommodation to witchcraft mentioned, "Evil eye" discussed, Comments on mineral baths in New Mexico, Reference to buried gold in Mexican folklore revealed

Tape 1, Side 2: "Psychic energy" described

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Access Information

Original Recording Format:

Recording Format Notes:

Transcript:

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