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Does Size Really Matter? Yam ceremonies in Papua New Guinea - Audio

38m · Lunch Hour Lectures - Autumn 2012 - Audio · 24 Oct 15:22

The Abelam people of Papua New Guinea are known for their elaborate initiation ceremonies. While these are no longer performed, the Abelam nevertheless continue to cultivate, decorate and display massive yam tubers, reaching up to 10 feet in length. Globalisation has deeply transformed local customs, yet this phenomenon, mixing agricultural techniques, rituals and magic, has maintained its relevance. This lecture will outline how non-western representations of society can, surprisingly, take the shape of very long yams.

The episode Does Size Really Matter? Yam ceremonies in Papua New Guinea - Audio from the podcast Lunch Hour Lectures - Autumn 2012 - Audio has a duration of 38:28. It was first published 24 Oct 15:22. The cover art and the content belong to their respective owners.

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