CHAPTER 3: The Samoan Household
Summary
In this chapter, Mead gives details of the structure of a Samoan household. At the head of each household, the central figure is a matai. These headmen hold either chiefly titles or the titles of talking chiefs.
In this chapter, Mead gives details of the structure of a Samoan household. At the head of each household, the central figure is a matai. These headmen hold either chiefly titles or the titles of talking chiefs.
She also explains the authority that relatives hold over children as opposed to outside villagers.
We also learn about how select girls become taupo, a cermonial princess that is chosen by the high chiefs.
She holds certain privilidges, such as being exempt from certai household tasks.
Mead depicts an elaborate method used by people who want to beg for something to the chief. The peson will sit with the chief, and display modesty, until he is asked the reason for his visit.
Discussion
This chapter gives us a detailed depiction of how a Samoan household is created. It is far from trivial, and as Mead explains to us, rank is very important to the Samoan household.
This chapter gives us a detailed depiction of how a Samoan household is created. It is far from trivial, and as Mead explains to us, rank is very important to the Samoan household.
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