Argonauts of the Western Pacific by Bronislaw Malinowski

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Author Malinowski, Bronislaw, 1884-1942
Author of introduction, etc. Frazer, James George, 1854-1941
Title Argonauts of the Western Pacific
An Account of Native Enterprise and Adventure in the Archipelagoes of Melanesian New Guinea
Credits Produced by Jeroen Hellingman and the Online Distributed
Proofreading Team (Italy) for Project Gutenberg.
Summary "Argonauts of the Western Pacific" by Bronislaw Malinowski is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. The work provides an in-depth ethnographic study of the Trobriand Islanders, focusing particularly on their complex systems of trade, known as the Kula. Through the author's meticulous observation and firsthand experience living among the natives, this book sheds light on the social, economic, and magical dimensions of their culture, emphasizing the integral role of exchange in their society. The opening of the book introduces the author’s empirical approach to ethnography, drawing attention to the urgency of documenting native cultures before they disappear. Malinowski reflects on the complexities of conducting fieldwork, including the challenges of communication and cultural immersion. Through this context, he sets the stage for discussing the Kula system—a form of ceremonial exchange that transcends mere economic transactions and is steeped in emotional and sociocultural significance. The introduction establishes a foundation for exploring broader themes of human behavior, social organization, and the intersection of magic and economy in the lives of the Trobriand Islanders. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Language English
LoC Class GN: Geography, Anthropology, Recreation: Anthropology
Subject Kula exchange -- Papua New Guinea -- Trobriand Islands
Subject Massim (Papua New Guinean people) -- Rites and ceremonies
Subject Ethnology -- Papua New Guinea -- Trobriand Islands
Subject Folklore -- Papua New Guinea -- Trobriand Islands
Subject Barter -- Papua New Guinea -- Trobriand Islands
Subject Trobriand Islands (Papua New Guinea) -- Social life and customs
Category Text
EBook-No. 55822
Release Date
Most Recently Updated Oct 27, 2017
Copyright Status Public domain in the USA.
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