Hamatsa
At a glance:
- Series: American Indians Ready Reference
- Categories: Social Science
- Subcategories: Native Americans, American Indians, Dance, Dancers, Dancing, Ceremonies, Rites, Rituals
- Curriculum: American Indian History
- Geographical Location: Canada
Article abstract: The Hamatsa, or Cannibal Dance, is intended to inspire fear and awe in the audience
The Hamatsa, a dance performed by the Kwakiutl of British Columbia, Canada, is used primarily to induct novice shamans into the Hamatsa Society. Their membership in this society assures them of higher status as community healers. The Hamatsa dance is also occasionally performed at ceremonial potlatches.
The Hamatsa or “cannibal,” is the central figure of the dance. Before each performance, a fire is lit in a large ceremonial plank house. After the fire...
[The entire page is 333 words long]
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