Building identity in the diaspora: (A) gastronomic discourse and the Arbëreshë in Calabria

  • Giusy Gallo

Abstract

The question around the theme of the diaspora concerns the notion of identity: lost, rediscovered, constructed. One of the elements that contributes to build the identity of the diaspora is food as a communication system. The goal of this article is to show a core identity in the Arbëreshë of Calabria starting with the gastronomic discourse on shtrydhlat, a fresh pasta that is handmade in some communities. The preparation of shtrydhlat is expressed in a series of gestures that develop in the shape of the spiral, which also recurs in the vallja, a cultural performance. A working hypothesis concerns the narrative of the identity of the Arbëreshë diaspora and the organization of space in the spiral movement.

Published
2020-03-19
How to Cite
Gallo, G. (2020). Building identity in the diaspora: (A) gastronomic discourse and the Arbëreshë in Calabria. E|C, (27), 63-71. Retrieved from https://mimesisjournals.com/ojs/index.php/ec/article/view/408
Section
Taste of others, taste of self: taste and identity