Question

know the definitions for the following varieties of rites and ritual: rites of purification, rites of passage, rites of reversal, rites of conspicuous display, rites of conspicuous consumption, ritual drams, rites of exchange, rites of competition, rites of devalorization. (497-99)

Answer 1

Rites of Passage are ceremonies marking social transformations, while Rites of Intensification affirm solidarity within a group. Rites of Reversal invert social norms.

• Rites of Passage:

A rite of passage marks social transformations and changes in social status within a community.

Examples include birth, puberty, marriage, and death ceremonies.

These rituals typically have three stages - separation, transition, and incorporation.

• Rites of Intensification:

These rituals are performed to affirm and strengthen bonds of solidarity within a religious group or community.

They often follow a period of crisis and are designed to bring people together.

• Rites of Reversal:

In these rituals, social rules and norms are inverted or temporarily suspended.

They serve to emphasize the value of these rules within society.

Examples include the Swazi ritual of Incwala and Halloween in the United States.