Essay On Cultural Symbolism

Contents
Introduction 2
Meaning and Symbols 2
The Act 2
The Four Stages 2
Impulse 2
Perception 3
Manipulation 3
Consummation 3
Significant Symbols 3
Critical Points 4
Cultural Symbols 5

Introduction
The theory of understanding symbolic interactionism would include the understanding, minding and naming of self-fulfilling prophecy. It can also be seen as an ongoing process of creating. The interpretation of the theory allows for us to see the world and the symbols used in a whole new light and build a new understanding of how we interpret objects while we make sense of the people that surround us (Mazzotta & Myers, 2008:20). This assignment will evaluate the importance of symbols in our lives as identified in the word of George Mead, and

The circle is the symbol of totality, unity, completeness through re-inventing the self. The line is the symbol of continuity with no beginning, middle no end. The movements are a representation of very long ritual preparations leading towards the actual dance (Ngema, 2007:6).
The Zulu dance tradition is primarily a proud initiative for its people because it is passed down from generations to generation and also signs and symbolism which punctuate the processes of cultural transmission (Ngema, 2007:7).

The nakedness of the body during Zulu dances is symbol of purity and renewals while the masking paints on the face and the body symbolises the innocence of a being. Bare feet are an indication of sacredness attached to the ritual 9Ngema, 2007:13).
Rituals are a continuous journey from the known to the unknown and from the unknowing to knowing. They are the path from the old to the new and from the new to the old, for instance from childhood to adulthood with is marked by a significant celebration (Ngema, 2007:13).
Basic techniques and meanings in Zulu dances
a) Agrarian cult
These are the dances that are performed in ceremonies about the soil and the food production such as umkhosi wokweshwama
b) Ecstatic