ABSTRACT

Originally published in 1956, the main emphasis of the book is on the complex age-set organization which constitutes the framework within which the life of every Kikuyu is regulated from infancy to old age. The book shows how the political and territorial organization, the judicial system and the administration of justice, the training of leaders, the structure and the control of social life are all integrated into the age-set system.

chapter 1|2 pages

The Tribes of the Unit

chapter 2|5 pages

General Terms Denoting Age

chapter 3|24 pages

The Regimental System

chapter 4|8 pages

Pre-Initiation Age-Sets

chapter 5|13 pages

The Generation 1

chapter 6|13 pages

Rituals of the Age Organization

chapter 7|3 pages

Social Functions of the Age Organization