AUDI ALTERAM PARTEM: CONTEXTUALIZATION OF ARRANGED MARRIAGES IN CONTEMPORARY SERBIA
Keywords:
arranged marriages, transnational marriages, matrimonial industry, anthropology of marriage, Serbia, AlbaniaAbstract
The understanding of transnational marriages between Albanians and Serbs originates from prevalent media narratives and stereotypes. These narratives predominantly depict such marriages within sensationalistic, socio-demographic, or patriotic-paternalistic discourses. By combining literature and empirical research on marriage practices and marital experience, this study aims to demystify the specificities of arranged marriages. Despite the absence of domestic studies on this subject, recognizing a widely pervasive phenomenon in certain regions of Serbia and integrating this topic into anthropological discourse may serve as a foundation for various academic inquiries. Consequently, the primary objectives of this research include: a) conceptualizing arranged marriage and the matrimonial industry and b) contextualizing political and socio-cultural factors influencing arranged marriages. In addition to the literature, this study is substantiated by statements and narratives collected during field research in Belgrade, as well as in the municipalities of Sjenica and Ivanjica, spanning from March to August 2022.
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