ABSTRACT
In the preceding chapter I portrayed Berosaiña individuals to highlight the important differences between them and the variety of relations they have with the non-Berosaiña villagers of Beparasy. While Raboba’s indebtedness, laziness and tiny house are a source of collective amusement, many villagers are keen to keep good relationships with Ramarcel because of his key role in the local transport business. Randrianja Albert is respected as an important notable, above all because of his wealth. Vohangy’s friendly character and hard-working ethos, well appreciated by her customers, boosted her small business so much that in the course of the two years of my stay it had become more popular than that of her free descendant competitor in the catering business at the market. Randriatsoa’s rhetorical skills have earned him a solid reputation as an orator and his voice is often heard during kabary (speeches) at various occasions. What all this shows is that members of the Berosaiña group have achieved a variety of social statuses and occupy different key roles in the little society of Beparasy.
