Immaterielles kulturelles Erbe, kollektive Identität und Bildung in der Ixil-Region, El Quiché, Guatemala

Aretz, C.N. (2026)

Doctoral Thesis

This dissertation examines the diverse processes of collective identity formation in the Ixil region, located in the department of El Quiché, Guatemala. The analysis focuses on examining the effects of socio-economic problems and historical ruptures from the civil war on the construction of collective identities within the communities.
The study provides insights into the everyday lives of the communities and includes elements of intangible cultural heritage. These are expressions of cultural resilience and testify to a conscious, selective approach to individual components.
Further, it identifies the impact of community divisions as a consequence of the civil war, illustrating local strategies for constructing collective identity. The role of a local cultural organization illustrates agency among indigenous peoples and the complexities of identity formation It discusses educational disparities among the youth and advocates for a reformed, culturally inclusive education system that fosters dialogue, recognises diverse perspectives, and promotes a holistic approach to overcome division.

• Ixil-Maya
• Indigenous Rights
• Divination
• Ritual
• Indigenous Education
• Collective Identities
• Indigenous Heritage
• Guatemala

• All authors: Aretz, C.N.
• Supervisor: De Campos Françozo, M.
• Co-supervisor: Berger, M.E.
• Committee: Kolen, J.C.A.; Henry, A.G.; Gijn, E. van; Sachse, F.; Bruil, M.
• Qualification: Doctor (dr.)
• Awarding Institution: Faculty of Archaeology, Leiden University
• Date: 2026-02-03
• Sponsorship: NWO
• Grant number: 360-62-050