Culture and Customs of South Africa

by Funso Afolayan

Overview

South Africa can be considered the newest of African nations, with the ending of Apartheid in 1994. It is one of the most ethnically, culturally, and linguistically varied countries on the continent and the economic powerhouse of southern Africa. This inclusive overview is a must-have for all readers wanting a meaty introduction to South Africa today, in an historical context that pulls the strands of all South Africans, from Zulu to Afrikaner to Indian, together. Some highlights from the myriad of topics covered include oral history, multireligious traditions, wood sculpture, communal ties, cone-on-cylinder housing, changing roles of women, conjugal arrangements, and British and Boer influences.

This timely work expands our knowledge of South Africa beyond the headlines. The European angle with the story behind the Boers, the Afrikaners, and Apartheid is made clear. The African angle is the strongest, with balanced insights into various traditions and ways of life. A chronology, glossary, photos, and map complement the narrative.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780313320187
Publisher:	Bloomsbury Academic
Publication date:	04/30/2004
Series:	Culture and Customs of Africa
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	328
Product dimensions:	6.14(w) x 9.21(h) x 0.75(d)

About the Author

FUNSO AFOLAYAN is Associate Professor of History at the University of New Hampshire, Durham.

Table of Contents

Series Forward
Preface
Acknowledgments
Chronology
Land and People
History and Political Economy
Religion and World View
Literature
The Media
Art and Architecture
Cuisine and Traditional Dress
Gender Roles, Marriage, and Family
Social Customs and Lifestyle
Performing Arts and Cinema
Glossary
Bibliographical Essay
Index