A Swamp and a Wetland – Two Faces of Wilderness

This paper presents a case study on the relationship between inhabitants of a South Moravian village and the local swamp/wetland. Two different approaches were identified for this particular locality; one was called “everyday” approach and the second “environmental” approach. The disparity of these approaches is documented in the way the individual participants construct, by means of various symbols and meanings, a symbolic system relating to this locality. Environmental experts speak about the “wetland”, whose dominant purpose is life, and they undertake measures for its protection. On the other hand, from the point of view of the everyday approach, the “swamp” is perceived as wilderness, represented by the myth that death is playing its key role. This approach, based on traditional concepts of mythology, is far removed from the environmental approach, which is based on the sign system of science. This disparity then presents a source of misunderstanding and possible conflicts between the individual parties.