Observations on the Shilluk of the Upper Nile. Customary law: marriage and the violation of rights in women

Howell, P. P. (Paul Philip)

article

Observations on the Shilluk of the Upper Nile. Customary law: marriage and the violation of rights in women

Africa • 23 • Published In 1953 • Pages: 94-109

By: Howell, P. P. (Paul Philip).

Abstract
This article deals with marriage among the Shilluk. The manner in which a marriage is arranged and legalized, the circulation and distribution of bridewealth, and rules governing divorce and widowerhood are treated in some detail. In particular the rules governing the return of cattle in cases of divorce and death are described. Material on legitimacy of children, and data on penalties for adultery, pre-marital intercourse, and sexual realtions with royal women are included. Some criticisms are offered of other accounts of Shilluk marriage practices and materials from several authors are used. Howell notes that the development of Native Courts has crystallized customs and brought about rigidity in rules that once had greater flexibility.

Subjects

Basis of marriage

Regulation of marriage

Arranging a marriage

Mode of marriage

Termination of marriage

Kinship regulation of sex

Premarital sex relations