The Necromantic State

“In this original and creative book Irina R. Troconis problematizes the idea of one of the main topics among Venezuelan researchers: the ‘magical state.’ By shifting the axis from the ‘magical state’ to the ‘necromantic state,’ she brings into focus the image of Hugo Chavez after his death and its use by the Bolivarian state. In so doing, she makes a strong theoretical intervention: the national ghost becomes a specter when the state puts it into circulation. This outstanding book will make a great impact in the field of Venezuelan and Latin American cultural studies.” - Graciela Montaldo, Professor of Latin American and Iberian Cultures, Columbia University

“The Necromantic State is a compelling, fascinating, and sometimes jaw-dropping exploration of the afterlife of the charismatic leadership of Hugo Chávez. Irina R. Troconis is the rare scholar who can take unconventional objects—from phone cards to films, performance art to dolls—and analyze them to illuminate the politics that surround the deadly remains of the state. Troconis addresses the suffering of millions of citizens who remain in or have fled the country, without celebrating or condemning the unprecedented displacement. Amid a national tragedy, she still finds ways to decipher what the ghostly members of the state say.” - Javier Guerrero, Professor of Latin American Studies, Princeton University

"I have no doubt that this book will become a classic. . . . Its conceptual contribution of the necromantic state is essential to understand what has happened in Venezuela in the last 30 years." - Magdalena López, A Contracorriente

"[The Necromantic State] brilliantly points us toward a necessary debate: one that not only scrutinizes past failures but also works to recover a sense of futurity." - Isabel Piniella Grillet, ReVista