| in the universe as Neolithic man imagines
it. They are regarded as mana bearers of highest rank, and are at
the centre of the actions whereby living mdn hopes to gain influence
over mana by magic means. Ancestor-worship is thus also a sublime
'confirmation' of the living group. A special position within the
community is also held by those magicians, medicine-men, and shamans
who, because of their Special talents, are qualified to practice magic
rites, or to lead the community in performing them. These men, it
is believed, are capable of influencing mana by means of concentration
and outward signs. The means applied are of many different kinds,
as are also the effects which it is hoped to achieve. Accordingly
those who possess strong magic powers have very varied functions.
Tire creative artist, too, as might be expected, is firmly rooted
in this social pattern. It is lie, after all, who creates those
objects which have their indispensable role to play in the customary
rituals. Since social relationships are in the last instance based
on the same mythical and magic basic concepts as the veneration
of 'works of art', the latter are also closely connected to the
social framework.
Communities of this type are always strongly influenced by tradition.
"Tradition is unshakable; strictly speaking, it is not permissible
to touch it at all. Constant repetition is significant as a confirmation
of continued activity." |
