Symbols of life and death in traditional Melanesia: how they are communicated and interpreted
Alphonse Aime
Abstract
Humans, as social beings, discovered various ways of identifying themselves as belonging to a particular group of people. One way was through the use of cultural symbols, which bind people together as a group. These symbols gave meaning and purpose to their lives, leading them to establish relationships of identity and mutual interaction. These symbols were upheld, as embodiments of the peoples’ beliefs. They were seen as having spiritual, social and cultural connectedness with the people and the world around them. Papua New Guinea societies were no exception to this universal norm. However, these societies developed their own meanings, interpretations, definitions and affinity to the symbols.
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