About This Book
The author provides a systematic account of a Moluccan island and its population, combining geographical description and a concise history with detailed ethnographic observation of inland and coastal communities. Chapters examine settlement patterns, housing, clothing, social organization, governance, customs, rites of passage, belief and ritual life, law and dispute resolution, economic activities (agriculture, hunting, fishing, crafts and seafaring), health practices, warfare and headhunting, music and dance, and funerary customs. Illustrations, maps, and an index support the text, which aims to present careful local observation rather than broad generalization.