Rites Of Passage: Aboriginal Males Essay

Rites of Passage are ceremonial, traditional and cultural rituals that mark important stages of phases in one’s development throughout their lives. This has been true from the earliest of human civilizations and in modern society today. While there are many different sorts of rites in varying cultures that exist throughout the world, some of the most significant are those that celebrate the transition of childhood into adulthood. A fantastic example of this can be seen in the Australian Aboriginal males as they leave behind boyhood and enter into manhood (Haviland, Prins and et al. 327). In order to understand the 3 stages and significance of these phases it is best to discuss them individually.
Separation Phase: When the male youths reach a certain age the male clan elders will take the boys away from the community encampment, forcing them to leave behind what is normal and familiar. The women dramatically will wale and cry at their departure to this important ceremony, as if they will never return the same (Haviland, Prins and et al. 328).
Transition Phase: While in the isolated encampment the youths are treated as if they are dead and watch the dances, ceremonies and the telling of important cultural tales. They may learn great “secrets” that are reserved for the men of the community. This period is typified by a form of permanent physical alteration or “surgery,” for example circumcision or tooth extraction. The goal is for the boy’s life to end and the man’s life to begin (Haviland, Prins and et al. 328).
Introduction Phase: When the men return to their community they are celebrated as having returned from the dead, except now they are men. They now have a new identity and role within the society (Haviland, Prins and et al. 328).
Ceremony and ritual surrounding the rites of passage with the Australian Aboriginal tribes that lead young boys to become young men is a perfect example of the phenomenon. However, such ceremonies and traditions involving, both, young men and women, from cultures all across the globe are celebrated every day. Understanding these transitions and the significance of these rituals in hugely significant to understanding the philosophies, ideologies and values of any given culture. From a modern perspective, many may find these sorts of rituals to be controversial or outdated, but they have been and remain incredibly relevant to peoples all over the world.

WORK CITED

Haviland, Prins and et al. "Chapter 15: Spirituality and Religion." The Essence of Anthropology. 3rd. Cengage Learning, 2012. 328-329. Print.