Initiation Rites in Africa

Throughout the story, we see the people in the tribes going through initiation rites into manhood, the boys must be circumcised, everyone has their bottom teeth removed, Benson and Alepho's mother has a mark on her forehead that shows her bravery. Tattooing, scabbing, scarification, and ritualistic battles are all parts of initiation in different African tribes. It got me thinking of what initiation rites we go through in our nation, and I think that though they are very different amongst us all, we all have them none the less. Examples include First communion, Bar Mitzvah's, Sweet Sixteen parties, getting your driver's licence, and graduation days all seem to be ritualistic initiation rites that can compare to those of the boys in Africa.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TRADJSibhNg