The Anthropology of Disability in the Culture of Maternity and Childhood (the Case of the Arkhangelsk North)

Abstract

In this article, I discuss the social, ethical, and religious notions, prejudices, and practices, related to the birth of the disabled child, that are widespread among the Russian population of the Arkhangelsk region. I further examine the magic rites, customs, and social norms that existed and in some cases still exist in the community of the Russian village. I specifically focus on the issue of notions about mother’s sin, mother’s guilt, and mother’s responsibility for her children’s health.