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Argonauts of the Western Pacific

Argonauts of the Western Pacific

by Bronislaw Malinowski

This book examines the seafaring and intertribal trade networks of the coastal populations of the South Sea Islands and New Guinea. It details the specialized manufacturing centers, established trade routes, and exchange systems of groups such as the Motu, the Mailu, and the inhabitants of the surrounding archipelagoes.

Language
English
License
Public Domain
Originally published
1922
Latest release
Aug 13, 2026
Pages
491
Format
A4 (210 × 297 mm)
Book type
Textbook
Read
Public page

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Table of Contents

  1. Introduction: The Subject, Method and Scope of this Inquiry
  2. Chapter I The Country and Inhabitants of the Kula District
  3. Chapter II The Natives of the Trobriand Islands
  4. Chapter III The Essentials of the Kula
  5. Chapter IV Canoes and Sailing
  6. Chapter V The Ceremonial Building of a Waga
  7. Chapter VI Launching of a Canoe and Ceremonial Visiting—Tribal Economics in the Trobriands
  8. Chapter VII The Departure of an Overseas Expedition
  9. Chapter VIII The First Halt of the Fleet on Muwa
  10. Chapter IX Sailing on the Sea-Arm of Pilolu
  11. Chapter X The Story of Shipwreck
  12. Chapter XI In the Amphletts—Sociology of the Kula
  13. Chapter XII In Tewara and Sanaroa—Mythology of the Kula
  14. Chapter XIII On the Beach of Sarubwoyna
  15. Chapter XIV The Kula in Dobu—Technicalities of the Exchange
  16. Chapter XV The Journey Home—The Fishing and Working of the Kaloma Shell
  17. Chapter XVI The Return Visit of the Dobuans to Sinaketa
  18. Chapter XVII Magic and the Kula
  19. Chapter XVIII The Power of Words in Magic—Some Linguistic Data
  20. Chapter XIX The Inland Kula
  21. Chapter XX Expeditions Between Kiriwina and Kitava
  22. Chapter XXI The Remaining Branches and Offshoots of the Kula
  23. Chapter XXII The Meaning of the Kula
  24. Notes