Polynesian Culture

Paper Summary:

The paper examines some of the basic cultural forces that drove the original ta moko designs. The writer further discusses its recent resurgence among modern Maori. It explains the highly ritualized process of traditional ta moko incisions. The paper suggests that the use of ta moko among the Maori can be explained in terms of a need to establish a strong cultural marker.

From the Paper:

"The Maori Ta Moko: Historical and Cultural Development
Few cultural practices possess the immediate recognition and visual authority of the Maori ta moko. The ta moko is the unique and elaborate body tattoos that Maori traditionally receive. Both men and women receive the tattoos, notably on their faces where the intricate patterns can be quite striking and even intimidating."

Sample of Sources Used:

• "Makeup Smudging? Try a Chisel." Civilization 2.4 (July/August 1995): 27.
• Pritchard, Stephen. "Essence, Identity, Signature: Tattoos and Cultural Property." Social Semiotics 10.3 (Dec. 2000): 331-346.
• Pritchard, Stephen. "Traces of Authority: Anthropology and the Maori Tattoo's 'Proper' Time." Journal of Transnational & Crosscultural Studies 7.2 (Oct. 1999): 177-194
• Te Awekotuku, Ngahuia. "Ta Moko: Maori Tattoo." In Goldie. R. Blakely and D. Bateman, Eds. Auckland: David Bateman. 109-114

More papers on Polynesian Culture:

• Term Paper # 135615 : "Polynesian Tattooing"
• Essay # 28425 : "Polynesian Seafaring Culture"
• Book Review # 110145 : "From Cannibals to Master Carvers"

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