CAS AN 101 Chapter Notes - Chapter 1: Nacirema, Culture Hero, Medicine Man
13 Sep 2016
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Nacirema north american grp. living in the territory between the canadian cree, the. Yaqui & tarahumare of mexico, & the carib & arawak of the antilles. Much of origin unknown: tradition came from the east, originated by a culture hero (notgnihsaw) who is known for 2 feats of strength. Throwing a piece of wampum across the river pa-to-mac. Chopping down a cherry tree where the spirit of truth lived. Ritual activity important: human body (appearance & health imp. ) Write ingredients in ancient & secret language that only they & herbalists can read. Most of pop. masochists; seek out specialists once or twice a year. Nacirema have horror & fascination w/ the mouth. Belief that w/out these rituals, their teeth will fall out & their jaws will shrink, their gums will bleed, & their friends & lovers will leave them. Belief that there is a strong relationship between oral & moral characteristics.
