Posted: September 16th, 2017

Body Rituals Among the Nacirema” by Horace Miner

Body Rituals Among the Nacirema” by Horace Miner

Read the article “Body Rituals Among the Nacirema” by Horace Miner in order to help you with your assignment. The article will be posted on Angel.

Many anthropologists believe that culture is best expressed by the way people think about, imagine, decorate and/or punish their bodies. This assignment will involve several steps. The first will be for you to observe14 persons (7 males and 7 females) and take notes on the clothes and cosmetics they wear and how they adorn their bodies. Also pay attention to their hairstyle and/or facial hair.

The next step will be to interview 10 of them (5 males and 5 females). Ask them what they think of the body shape they have now, whether or not they are happy with their current image, how they would change their appearance if they could, and their opinions of the ideal body.  Always write down your observations before you forget them. Also, keep taking notes during interviews.

Write a 5-7 page typed, double-spaced paper based on your observations and interviews. Your paper should include (a) general statements, (b) specific examples with some exact quotes that illustrate and provide evidence for your general statements, (c) analysis and discussion of the data presented, and (d) a conclusion.  Be sure to reference your textbook and lecture notes where relevant. Cite sources and include a bibliography. The pages must be stapled. Use a 12-point font and 1-inch margins. Also, include a cover sheet or title page. Be sure to include the course # and the title, the location(s), the time(s) and the date(s) of your observations/interviews.

Grading will be based on the content, coherence/clarity, adherence to instructions,
creativity and insight, and Standard English usage (grammar, spelling and punctuation). Turn in your paper by the due date (in class Wednesday, April 1st ). Early papers will be accepted, but late papers will lose 5 points per day.

If you need help with the mechanics of writing (not the content of the paper itself), you may go to the writing lab (CUE 303, 335-3628) where tutors will help you free of charge. And, of course, you are encouraged to see the TA or me immediately if you need help. Do not wait until the last minute.