Reports of the Cambridge Anthropological Expedition to Torres Straits: Volume 6, Sociology, Magic and Religion of the Eastern Islanders

This volume examines the societies and belief structures of the indigenous peoples living in the eastern islands of the Strait.

A. C. Haddon (Author), W. H. R. Rivers (Author), A. Wilkin (Author)

9780521179904, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 17 February 2011

396 pages
27.9 x 2.1 x 21 cm, 0.89 kg

Alfred Cort Haddon (1855–1940) was a highly influential British anthropologist and ethnologist who was instrumental in the foundation of a school of anthropology at Cambridge University. During 1898 and 1899, Haddon led an expedition which conducted ethnographical research in the Torres Strait, New Guinea, and Borneo. The main results of this expedition were compiled in a series of volumes, containing contributions from a diverse range of specialists. Originally published in 1908, this is the sixth in that series. The text contains information on the societies and belief structures of the indigenous peoples living in the eastern islands of the Strait. A large number of illustrative figures are also included, demonstrating a broad variety of traditional practices. This is a fascinating book that will be of value to anyone with an interest in the development of anthropology and ethnology.

Introduction A. C. Haddon
1. Folk-tales A. C. Haddon
2. Genealogies W. H. R. Rivers
3. Kinship W. H. R. Rivers
4. Personal names W. H. R. Rivers
5. Birth and childhood customs, and limitation of children A. C. Haddon
6. Courtship and marriage A. C. Haddon
7. The regulation of marriage W. H. R. Rivers
8. Funeral ceremonies C. S. Myers and A. C. Haddon
9. Property and inheritance A. Wilkin
10. Social organisation W. H. R. Rivers
11. Trade A. C. Haddon
12. Quarrels and warfare A. C. Haddon
13. Magic A. C. Haddon
14. Religion A. C. Haddon
The cult of Bomai and Malu A. C. Haddon and C. S. Myers
Mythical beings A. C. Haddon.

Subject Areas: Social & cultural anthropology, ethnography [JHMC]