A Hamitic kingdom in the center of Africa: in Ruanda on the shores of Lake Kivu (Belgian Congo)

Pagés, G.; Scholl, Bernard

book chapter

A Hamitic kingdom in the center of Africa: in Ruanda on the shores of Lake Kivu (Belgian Congo)

Libraire Falk fils, Georges van Campenhout, Successeur • 1 • Published In 1933 • Pages: HRAF ms: v, 293 [original: iv, 704 , 29 plates]

By: Pagés, G., Scholl, Bernard.

Abstract
Books II, III, and V have not been processed for the files. These chapters deal primarily with mythology and historical matters. In the sections processed, the following subjects are treated: Physical and ethnological make-up of the Ruanda, political and social organization, psychology of the people; a short historical account of the Hamitic invasion of Ruanda; the Royal court personnel and activities; and funeral practices. Almost all discussion of Rundi culture by the author is based on observations made in and about the royal court. Although much of the author's writing is derived from personal experiences among the Rundi, it is apparent that a good deal of his data was obtained from unidentified informants and perhaps suffers from having been transmitted orally through several individuals. The author makes a number of general statements about 'blacks' which, if interpreted as 'Rundi,' may have some authority; but if taken at face value, seem to be unfounded generalizations. The author was a missionary of the White Fathers.

Form and rules of government

Ethnic stratification

Castes

Medical therapy

Magic

Accumulation of wealth

Pastoral activities

Etiquette