The history of anthropology is, to a large extent, the history of differing modes of interpretation. As anthropologists have long known, examining, analyzing and recording cultures in the quest to understand humankind as a whole is a vastly complex task, in which nothing can be achieved without careful and incisive interpretative work. Edward Evans-Pritchardâ¤s seminal 1937 Witchcraft, Oracles, and Magic Among the Azande is a model contribution to anthropologyâ¤s grand interpretative project, and one whose success is based largely on its authorâ¤s thinking skills. A major issue in anthropology at the time was the common assumption that the faiths and customs of other cultures appeared irrational or illogical when compared to the â¤?civilized⤠and scientific beliefs of the western world. Evans-Pritchard sought to challenge such definitions by embedding himself within a tribal culture in Africa â¤" that of the Azande â¤" and attempting to understand their beliefs in their proper contexts. By doing so, Evans-Pritchard proved just how vital context is to interpretation. Seen within their context, he was able to show, the beliefs of the Azande were far from irrational â¤" and magic actually formed a coherent system that helped mould a functional community and society for the tribe. Evans-Pritchardâ¤s efforts to clarify meaning in this way have proved hugely influential, and have played a major part in guiding later generations of anthropologists from his day to ours.