A Death in the Tiwi Islands: Conflict, Ritual and Social Life in an Australian Aboriginal Community

by Eric Venbrux

Overview

This compelling book is an extended case study of the social and legal ramifications of a homicide in a Tiwi community. The author gives a detailed account of the life of the victim and the events surrounding his murder, and describes the cycle of mortuary and seasonal rituals with their elaborate songs and dances. He also looks at the dramatic changes in Tiwi society over the last 100 years, and examines how the Tiwi have responded to the intervention of Western culture. In many areas, he finds, they have adapted and retained their own value system. Venbrux's account of the investigation and trial following the homicide provides timely and important insights into the issue of Aboriginal People, traditional law and the Australian criminal justice system. Through the strong narrative thread of this book we are presented with an incisive picture of a culture amid conflict and change.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521479134
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	01/01/1995
Pages:	288
Product dimensions:	5.98(w) x 9.02(h) x 0.67(d)

Table of Contents

Preface and acknowledgements; 1. Under the mango tree; 2. Tiwi culture amid change; 3. The victim and his father; 4. 'The message that it is murder'; 5. The funeral rituals; 6. The yam rituals; 7. 'Nothing but the truth'; 8. The post-funeral rituals; 9. Conclusion; Appendices; Notes; Glossary; References; Index.