article

The Nayar family in a disintegrating matrilineal system

International Journal of Comparative Sociology3 • Published In 1962 • Pages: 17-28

By: Nakane, Chie.

Abstract
This article is a study of the disintegration of the traditional Nayar tarwad (matrilocal joint family). The disintegrative process is due to sociocultural forces leading to the breakdown of five essential elements contributing to the functional stability of the tarwad: exclusive membership in a matrilineal lineage; co-residence in a domestic unit; membership in a property owning group; recognition of the karanavan (senior male member) as head of those units; and participation by the entire group as a ceremonial unit.
Subjects
Castes
Status, role, and prestige
Historical reconstruction
Military organization
Uniform and accouterment
External relations
Weapons
Warfare
Domesticated animals
Nuclear family
Functional and adaptational interpretations
Visiting and hospitality
Ethnosociology
culture
Kerala
HRAF PubDate
2017
Region
Asia
Sub Region
South Asia
Document Type
article
Evaluation
Creator Type
Ethnologist
Document Rating
5: Excellent Primary Data
Analyst
John Beierle; 1966-1968
Field Date
1955-1956
Coverage Date
1830-1962
Coverage Place
Ernakulam district, Kerala, India
Notes
Chie Nakane
Includes bibliographical references
LCCN
65071238
LCSH
Kerala (India)