Dreams in Otavaleña culture

Abstract

This article explores the significant role of dreams in Otavalo culture, highlighting their function as supernatural messages and the influence of their interpretation on social and economic relations within the community. Inspired by a chance encounter in 1982, where a dream led to an important journey, the study focuses on how dreams are perceived and managed, particularly by women. Through field research conducted in the communities of Quinchuquí and Otavalo during 1983 and 1986, it is revealed that women are predominantly responsible for interpreting dreams. This activity confers relative power on them and allows them to balance their status in a predominantly male society. The article discusses how this interpretation impacts social and economic dynamics, revealing that despite women's significant economic contribution, their compensation remains disproportionate compared to that of men.