Films

Spear and Sword: a Payment of Bridewealth on the Island of Roti

1988 / 22 minutes

Directed by: James J. Fox Timothy Asch Patsy Asch

Anthropologist

Country of production: Australia

Series: ANU, Indonesia Series

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The film begins as the groom’s side gathers the animals and money for a bridewealth payment, and discusses problems that might arise in negotiating the exchange. In ritual silence, they walk to the bride’s family house, where discussions proceed, interspersing ritual forms with lively conversation. When agreement is reached, drinking and feasting begin and a chanter recounts the origin of the first bridewealth payment.

Language and subtitles: Original Language with English Subtitles

Region: South-East Asia

Country: Indonesia

Keywords: Ritual Marriage Family / Kinship

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