The Potlatch: A Structural Analysis 1

Abstract

Significant variations are shown to be present in the potlatch in two Northwest Coast societies. Differences occur in occasions for potlatches, in frequency, in guests present, and in the nature of their relationship to the host. These variations are related to variations in the social structures of the societies. The Tlingit and the Kwakiutl are selected for comparison, using an approach which involves the building of models based upon a rule of marriage for the Tlingit and a rule of succession for the Kwakiutl. Analysis of the potlatches of these two societies verifies the structural models.

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