Book

Myth, ritual, and kingship in Buganda

Oxford University Press • New York • Published In 1991 • Pages:

By: Ray, Benjamin C..

Abstract

This is largely a historical study of Buganda kingship and critique of the theories of divine kingship and regicide. The author takes a position somewhere between purely political and symbolic analyses of kingship. According to Ray, the myths and rituals surrounding Buganda kingship have a basis in history: succession rituals replicate the historical events surrounding the founding of the kingdom, an act which legitimizes the new king's rule. Although it is true that many of the Buganda kings were killed, Ray sees this as a political rebellion by the clans against kingly abuse of power, the clan chiefs regarding themselves and the king as near equals. Furthermore, Ray argues that it was incumbent upon the king to arbitrarily kill even his own subjects in order to maintain both the social order and his pivotal position at the symbolic center of the realm. The study reveals how violence was an integral part of the king's charisma and power, although eventually leading to his demise.

HRAF PubDate

1998

Region

Africa

Sub Region

Eastern Africa

Document Type

Book

Evaluation

Creator Type

Ethnologist

Document Rating

4: Excellent Secondary Data

5: Excellent Primary Data

Analyst

Ian Skoggard ; 1997

Field Date

1972

Coverage Date

1300s-1972

Coverage Place

Uganda

Notes

by Benjamin C. Ray

Includes bibliographical references (p. 223-235) and index

LCCN

90007127

LCSH

Ganda (African people)