Growing up in an Egyptian village: Silwa, Province of Aswan

'Ammār, Ḥāmid

Book

Growing up in an Egyptian village: Silwa, Province of Aswan

Routledge and Kegan Paul Ltd. • London • Published In 1954 • Pages: xvii, 316

By: 'Ammār, Ḥāmid.

Abstract
This source is a study of the social and psychological aspects of education in the village community of Silwa. A discussion of the economy, social organization and religion is followed by an analysis of socialization from infancy to marriage and adulthood. Children's play, games and folk tales are described and analyzed in some detail. The appendices include results of psychological tests administered by the author. This is the first study of child training in a village community which is dominated by the Islamic tradition. (The author was born in Silwa and his personal connections permitted a high degree of participation in the community life.) Although the village is relatively isolated and conservative, influences from urban areas are being felt. The author includes a discussion of social change, especially the impact of modern schooling on the village culture. Throughout an interdisciplinary approach is used (anthropological, sociological and psychological).

Real property

Division of labor by gender

Community structure

Tillage

Occupational specialization

Daily routine

Household

Status, role, and prestige

Real property

Childhood activities

Nuclear family

Visiting and hospitality