article

When exceptions define the rules: Greek baptismal names and the negotiation of identity

Journal of anthropological research • 38 (3) • Published In 1982 • Pages: 288-302

By: Herzfeld, Michael.

Abstract

In this article Herzfeld discusses naming practices in two Greek communities. Children are usually named after their grandparents, alternating between sides of the family. For example the first son is named after his father's father, the second son after his mother's father, the first daughter after her mother's mother, the second daughter after her father's mother. It appears that the transmission of names correspond to the transmission of property, although not perfectly. However, Herzfeld argues that naming is a complex process more related to ideas of reciprocity than property. Naming is a way to reciprocate the benefits conferred from one generation to the next. Herzfeld also discusses terms of address and shows how a choice among various possible terms is used to indicate degree of closeness and inclusion.

HRAF PubDate

2003

Region

Europe

Sub Region

Southeastern Europe

Document Type

article

Evaluation

Creator Type

Ethnologist

Document Rating

4: Excellent Secondary Data

5: Excellent Primary Data

Analyst

Ian Skoggard ; 2002

Field Date

1973-1981

Coverage Date

not specified

Coverage Place

'Glendi', Crete and 'Pefko', Rhodes, Greece

Notes

Michael Herzfeld

Includes bibliographical references (p. 301-302)

LCCN

73645054

LCSH

Greece