Certain rites of transition and the conception of !Nau among the Hottentots

Hoernlé, Winifred

article

Certain rites of transition and the conception of !Nau among the Hottentots

Harvard African studies • 2 • Published In 1918 • Pages: 65-82

By: Hoernlé, Winifred .

Abstract
This document's brief descriptions of various 'rites de passage' as observed by and told to the author shortly before World War I. The various rites had survived in the main only in much reduced form and much information was derived only by questioning the oldest members of the group. Some material on the concept of '!Nau' or ritual impurity is included. General information on the 'rites de passage' has been indexed for 796, while specific information has been indexed for the appropriate subject terms.

Ethos

Puberty and initiation

Status and treatment of the aged

Organized ceremonial

Magical and mental therapy

Diet

Purification and atonement

Sacred objects and places