Falling Apart to Stay Together: Deep Play in the Grand Marais Mardi Gras

Abstract

This article examines a form of deep play in the Grand Marais Mardi Gras, one that involves a deeper level of play for the sake of the game itself. The improvised drama that is at the heart of this ritual celebration is occasionally used by its celebrants, who push themselves to the brink of dissolution in an apparent attempt to exact a commitment from the group.