46
Views
1
CrossRef citations to date
0
Altmetric
Original Articles

The attainment of adult status among the Mount Frere Bhaca

Pages 16-20 | Published online: 19 Jan 2007
 

SYNOPSIS

In this study the transition from childhood to full tribal membership is discussed.

Although circumcision appears to have been part of original (i.e. Natalian) Bhaca culture, the practice has fallen into disuse today and, generally speaking, there are no special rites that mark the attainment of manhood among boys. However, the phenomenon of its re‐adopton, mainly due to Hlubi influence, is noted.

Girls, on the other hand, should pass through a special ceremony (umnguzo, umgubho, ipati) on reaching physical maturity. The typical Christianized ceremony, as practised today, is described, with references to traditional practices.

Reprints and Corporate Permissions

Please note: Selecting permissions does not provide access to the full text of the article, please see our help page How do I view content?

To request a reprint or corporate permissions for this article, please click on the relevant link below:

Academic Permissions

Please note: Selecting permissions does not provide access to the full text of the article, please see our help page How do I view content?

Obtain permissions instantly via Rightslink by clicking on the button below:

If you are unable to obtain permissions via Rightslink, please complete and submit this Permissions form. For more information, please visit our Permissions help page.