article
Utani: joking, sexual license and social obligations among the Luguru
American anthropologist • 65 (6) • Published In 1963 • Pages: 1314-1327
By: Christensen, James Boyd.
Abstract
This study discusses the meaning and role of a joking relationship among a category of persons belonging to exogamous Luguru clans. Locally referred to as “utani,” two persons who stand as “joking relatives” vis-à-vis each other are by custom permitted, and in some instances required, to tease or make fun of each other without being offended. This expectation is reportedly useful for resolving tensions between preferentially marriageable cross-cousins from structurally competing Luguru clans. Joking relationships may also mitigate conflicts between the Luguru and neighboring non-Luguru communities.
- Region
- Africa
- Sub Region
- Eastern Africa
- Document Type
- article
- Evaluation
- Creator Type
- Anthropologist
- Document Rating
- 5: Excellent Primary Data
- Analyst
- Teferi Abate Adem; 2020
- Field Date
- 1959-1960
- Coverage Date
- 1959-1960
- Coverage Place
- Uluguru Mountains, Morogoro Region, Tanzania
- Notes
- James Boyd Christensen
- Includes bibliographical references (p. 1326-1327)
- LCCN
- 17015424
- LCSH
- Luguru (African people)