ABSTRACT

Originally published in 1931 this book was the first detailed ethnographic study of the Bavenda people. It pays particular attention to the double system of kinship groups which is unusual among the Bantu peoples. Richly illustrated with over 60 black and white plates, this books discusses the history and geography of the Bavenda, as well as social, economic, religious, political and legal aspects of their life, as well as medicine, magic and folklore.

chapter I|8 pages

Geography

chapter II|11 pages

History

chapter V|6 pages

Food and Narcotics

chapter VI|17 pages

Industries

chapter VII|14 pages

War, Trading, Travelling, and Hunting

chapter VIII|12 pages

Birth and Infancy

chapter IX|6 pages

Child Life

chapter X|41 pages

Puberty and Initiation

chapter XI|11 pages

Marriage

chapter XII|8 pages

Family Life and Etiquette

chapter XIII|5 pages

Mortuary Rites

chapter XIV|6 pages

Property, Succession, and Inheritance

chapter XVI|10 pages

Social Groupings

chapter XVII|19 pages

The Chief

chapter XIX|5 pages

Conceptions of The Universe

chapter XX|32 pages

Religion

chapter XXI|47 pages

Medicine and Magic

chapter XXII|7 pages

Rain-Making and Fertility of Crops

chapter XXIII|14 pages

Music, Dancing, and Song

chapter XXIV|32 pages

Folk-Lore

chapter XXV|2 pages

Miscellaneous Beliefs and Superstitions