Two maiden masks and water spiritOkorishimask center Cultures in all regions of Africa hold masking ceremonies These societies believe that the world of mortals and the world of spirits and gods are very closely connected ID: 338790
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Slide1
Ibo Masking Ceremonies
Two maiden masks
and water spirit--Okorishi--mask (center)Slide2
Cultures in all regions of Africa hold masking ceremonies
These societies believe that the world of mortals and the world of spirits and gods are very closely connected
The mask allows the mortal wearer to embody the persona of a god,
natural spirit
or human
emotion
Mgbedike
mask, represents strength and angerSlide3
The Ibo name for the masks is
egwugwu
Masks
are worn only by high-ranking
elders
Young men initiated into masking society around 16
Maskers prepare for ceremonies in ritual huts that women and children are always forbidden to enter
"And then the
egwugwu
appeared. The women and children sent up a great shout and took to their heels. It was instinctive."
Bird spirit maskSlide4
Once a tribe member puts on a mask he is
no
longer
himself but
instead becomes the spirit of the mask; ceremonial clothes and raffia palms hide his body
"Okonkwo's
wives...might have noticed that the second
egwugwu
had the springy walk of Okonkwo...But if they thought these things they kept them within themselves. The
egwugwu
with the springy walk was one of the dead fathers of the clan."Slide5
Maskers appear on important holidays--including harvests and days devoted to particular gods-- burials, and to settle social problems or strife
Maskers perform ritual dances representing the occasions on which they appear
In Nigeria today, maskers still perform on holidays, including Christmas.Slide6
"Their leader was called Evil Forest. Smoke poured out of his head."
Maskers embodying evil spirits will chase villagers with machetes or torches
Female masks--especially maiden masks--will dance and charm onlookers
Women and children come out to watch female masks but will hide from male masks
Maiden mask, worn by
a man but watched by
women and childrenSlide7
Discussion Questions
1.
What role do the
egwugwu
play in Chapter 10?2. Based on what you know of Ibo culture, why do you think masks are only worn by men?
3. Why do you think the spirits of women are honored with masks? What does this tell us about the values of Ibo society?