The Maasai of Africa课件.pptVIP

The Maasai of Africa By Karen Correa FCS214, Fall 2003 Introduction Semi-nomadic pastoralists Southern Kenya and northern Tanzania Tropical Savannah Climate Semi-arid lands 61-74 degree F 20-40 inches rain (November – May) General Characteristics Lifestyle Livestock – survival of the Maasai! Wooden and dung houses Blood and milk Male age-system Women were sub-ordinate subservient Traditional Dress/Appearance Treated and de-haired animal skins Men: Animal skin tied over one shoulder Warriors: Small calf- or goat-skin capes Iron rings and coils around the neck Black capes after circumcision Women: 2 leather aprons Coils of iron wire on arms and legs Shaved heads except warriors Adornment Cicatrisation Tattooing: Design with thorns and cut with razors Circumcision: Most important ritual for boys Clitoridectomy performed on girls Contortion: From iron coils worn by women Stilt legs impaired mobility Adornment (contd.) Piercing: Wore iron coils, chains, wires etc. Elongation of ear lobes and creation of big holes Paint: As a symbol, cure or for protection Use of white paint by circumcised boys Hair dressing: Only warriors wore pigtails Mixture of red paint, animal fat and red earth to style hair used by warriors Dress/Appearance Today Bright, colorful red cloth Beaded ornaments are a very important part of the Maasai culture Worn around neck, wrists, and through earlobes Adornment: Circumcision Piercing Reasons behind the Changes Increased awareness of the Maasai Wildlife and habitat conservationists Markets for beads Glass and plastic beads sold as fashionable items Summary One of the most traditional cultures that exist in Africa today! Not much change in lifestyle or clothing. Questions ??? * * *