ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the interpretations of Orthodox purity regulations among Seto women. Setos are a small minority people living in the borderland of Estonia and Russia. The analysis is based on folklore material gathered during early twentieth century and fieldwork conducted among contemporary Setos. The author reflects on the evolution of Seto religious practices and perceptions, and demonstrates how Seto women have actively interpreted the restrictions imposed by the Church on their religious participation through their oral tradition related, for instance, to the Mother of God. In addition, this chapter discusses the methodological and ethical challenges of conducting field research on delicate topics such as the intersection of religion, gender, embodiment, and sexuality.
