Arnoldi, Mary Jo. 2018. "Masks, Puppets and Masquerades: Reflections on Field Research in Mali; 1978-1980." Mande Studies, 20 111–122. https://doi.org/10.2979/mande.20.1.10.
Arnoldi describes her initial research experience in Mali (1978-1980) during the authoritarian regime of Moussa Traore. She discusses the importance of Malian colleagues in Bamako who supported the research, offered guidance and helped in arranging her introduction into Kirango, her research site. Focusing on community life in Kirango she emphasizes the major roles that Bakary Traore, her jatigi, along with many knowledgeable men and women in this community, have played and continue to play today as her research collaborators, cultural guides and friends.
