Book Reading #25 - Coming of Age in Samoa

Title:
Chapter 8: The Role of the Dance

Reference:
Mead, Margaret. Coming of Age in Samoa. Harper Perennial, 1928 (1971)

Summary:
Dancing is something that almost all ages of both sexes do.  It is the one area of life where everyone is allowed to express their own individuality.  Everyone who dances receives feedback usually that of praise.  This, Mead points out, is where much education and social contact occurs because it is one place where a child is not constantly shushed and scolded.  Dancing also allows people to get over shyness.  Because everyone dances, they are forced into the limelight.


There are at least three different dance styles: the taupo, the dance of the boys, and the jesters.  Mead says that if you get to know a person you can sometimes figure out their form of dance by their personality.


Discussion:
I found it interesting that Mead saw the role of dance so vital for the community.  I would agree with her that expressing individualism is very important for the young.  The community is another important aspect. She noted in an earlier chapter that boys are able to have social interaction through fishing parties whereas girls really don't get that luxury.