article

"We've always done it like this . . . except for a few details": "tradition" and "innovation" in Okiek ceremonies

Comparative studies in society and history • 35 (1) • Published In 1993 • Pages: 30-65

By: Kratz, Corinne Anne.

Abstract

This article considers initiation ceremonies as compared to those of Africa in general. The author explores the concept of "tradition" as an indigenous cultural concept shaped by different perspectives and processes relevant to their particular notions of history and identity. After a broad discussion of common approaches and attitudes to tradition, the author discusses Okiek notions of tradition, sketches their history of the initiation ceremonies, and then examines "Okiek imaging of ceremonial tradition both through discourse and performance."

HRAF PubDate

2014

Region

Africa

Sub Region

Eastern Africa

Document Type

article

Evaluation

Creator Type

Ethnologist

Document Rating

5: Excellent Primary Data

Analyst

John Beierle; 2012

Field Date

1974-1975, 1982-1991

Coverage Date

1974-1991

Coverage Place

Kaplelach and Kipchornwonek Okiek, western Mau Escarpment, Rift Valley province, Kenya

Notes

Corinne A. Kratz

Includes bibliographical references (p. 62-65)

LCCN

60023653

LCSH

Okiek (African people)

Dorobo (African people)