Social and Symbolic Values of Feminine 'Knè' Initiation among the Guro of the Ivory Coast

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Book chapter

Title:	Social and Symbolic Values of Feminine 'Knè' Initiation among the Guro of the Ivory Coast
Author:	Deluz, Ariane
Book title:	Transformations of African Marriage
Year:	1987
Pages:	113-135
Language:	English
Geographic term:	Ivory Coast - Côte d'Ivoire
Subjects:	Guro female circumcision girls' initiation Cultural Roles
Abstract:	This paper examines the context of 'knè' initiation for the girls of the northern Guro tribe in the Ivory Coast. After describing the social location of Guro women and the men's societies of 'jè' masks and their relationships with women, the author looks at the social function of the 'knè' initiation society and its rituals. She goes on to show that initiation is but a part of a process of symbolization in which women participate. 'Knè' plays an essential role in structuring feminine identity. It prepares the young girl for sexual life. The blood of her excision spilling on the ground of the ancestors is a tribute to the girl's father and consecrates her rupture with him. Initiation rites, the passing on of knowledge, the instruction of songs, all constitute a preparation of the young girl for maternity as well as an affirmation of the symbolic bisexuality of women who have reached childbearing age. Bibliogr., notes, sum. in French.