When … is sometime in the late 60s (according to one version I heard) or (according to another) the mid- to late 70’s … or 80’s --  “Local” is a small village, somewhere, in South America, or Central or South Africa. 

The anthropologist brings to the village a television set, or a film projector, or a vcr (beta, most likely) … replete with appropriate electricity-generating equipment; he must have gotten a fair-sized grant from his University.  Or else electricity had recently been introduced into the village.

The anthropologist sets up shop in the village longhouse – or community center … lights low (or non-existent) … perhaps he provides popcorn.  At any rate, he draws a crowd; every man, woman and child in the village gathers before the black box (or white screen) and sits, enthralled.

Are the movies in English?, or have they been translated?

Are the television shows ‘cop’ dramas or sitcoms?

Does he show “I Love Lucy”?

Does he screen Shakespeare? 

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