Women of the Place is a study of gender relations in the kastom communities of South Pentecost, Vanuatu. It considers kastom in these communities not as an eternal tradition, but rather as a way of life, an identity in relation, and in resistance to the forces of European development. The way in which Christian missions, the labour trade, and the development of Western political institutions had a divergent impact on women and men is explored. The relations between persons and things is highlighted in an examination of the myths and rituals of the life-cycle and of grade-taking. The significance of this ritual is located in the context of colonial history, particularly the impact of pacification on men. Finally, the book considers more generally kastom and gender in the post-colonial state.
- ISBN13 9781134352265
- Publish Date 11 June 2014 (first published 1 January 1994)
- Publish Status Active
- Publish Country GB
- Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
- Imprint Routledge
- Format eBook
- Pages 322
- Language English