Reference Information
Title: Coming of Age in Samoa
Author: Margaret Mead
Editor: Harper Perennial, 1928 (1971)
Chapter 8: The Role of the Dance
Summary
This chapter discussed the importance of dance in Samoan society. It is the only activity in which almost all ages and sexes participate, and unlike every day events, children are treated as the focus of the event. Individuality is encouraged, and the dances serve to socialize young children and allow participation despite of handicaps.
Discussion
In this situation, it seems as if many of the roles of Samoan culture are reversed. I like that the children have this one opportunity to be in the spotlight, and I liked the author's relation of the discrimination of bad dancers to our educational system, where those that are not as proficient tend to fall behind due to lack of praise and opportunity.
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