Book
The language of secrecy: symbols & metaphors in Poro ritual
Rutgers University Press • New Brunswick, New Jersey • Published In 1984 • Pages:
By: Bellman, Beryl Larry.
Abstract
The author of this study analyzes the various forms used by Kpelle to communicate or withhold information, treating lying and secrecy as 'communicative events' in the context of ritual and initiation activities of the Poro secret society. Among these forms are: parables, dilemma tales, pretalk in palavers, gnomic expressions, exaggerated descriptions, allegorical accounts, and ritual metaphors. The author shows how Kpelle locate the meaning contexts, or meni, of social interactions.
- HRAF PubDate
- 2009
- Region
- Africa
- Sub Region
- Western Africa
- Document Type
- Book
- Evaluation
- Creator Type
- Ethnologist
- Document Rating
- 5: Excellent Primary Data
- Analyst
- M. A. Marcus ; 1984
- Field Date
- 1967-1979
- Coverage Date
- 1960-1984
- Coverage Place
- Liberia
- Notes
- By Beryl Larry Bellman
- Includes bibliographical references (p. 151-158)and index
- LCCN
- 82013157
- LCSH
- Poro (Society)/Kpelle (African people)--Rites and ceremonies/Secrecy/Liberia--Social life and customs