Question

1. Define "rite of passage." 2. Identify and explain each of the three phases that ordinarily constitute a rite of passage. 3. Provide at least two detailed examples to illustrate your answer. You may use examples from your own life experience provided they fit the definition of the term.

Answer 1

1)rites of passage definition

Ceremonies that mark important transitionalperiods in a person's life, such as birth, puberty,marriage, having children, and death. Rites ofpassage usually involve ritual activities andteachings designed to strip individuals of theiroriginal roles and prepare them for new roles.The traditional American wedding ceremony issuch a rite of passage. In many so-calledprimitive societies, some of the most complexrites of passage occur at puberty, when boys andgirls are initiated into the adult world. In someceremonies, the initiates are removed from theirvillage and may undergo physical mutilationbefore returning as adults.

2)Three stages of a rite of passage

Separation, Transition, Reintegration

Rite of passage: separation

symbolic separation from old life. Initiate may be physically segregated

Rite of passage: Transition

liminal phase. initiate is no longer in the old status, but not yet in the new. may include learning skills necessary for the new state.

Rite of passage: Reintegration

initiate emerges and is welcomed into the community in the new status

3)For an example of a modern rite of passage, look at marriage. Marriage in most cultures cannot occur until the pair is prepared to move out of their parent's house (separation). The fiancé and fiancée often go through an extended period called "engagement" after formal vows in which the pair is not supposed to live together. There are even sexually segregated rituals for each gender to undertake separately. For instance, during the bachelor party, the groom may engage in behavioral reversals and break taboos under the influence of intoxicants. In many religious practices, such as that of Catholics, the actual wedding is preceded by a period of religious instruction and counseling (transition). The female partner traditionally loses her old name to gain a new one, and in many cultures wears a disguise (a veil). The actual ceremony takes place between the two undergoing the rite of passage involves a giving each other rings (exchange of gifts). The participants wear ritual clothes (tuxedo and white dress). Following the couple's ceremony, the community shows approval (incorporation) by offering wedding gifts, eating, and dancing.