Class 12 English Lesson 14 Essay: Marriage as a Social Institution: Reference to Context & Reference beyond Text Literature Section
a. Discuss six dimensions that define normative marriage in America.
The six dimensions that define normative marriage in America are: marriages are entered voluntarily by mature, heterosexual adults with the expectation that husbands will be the principal earners, that both partners will be sexually faithful, and that married partners will become parents. Although many marriages depart from these ideals, the ideals still constitute the core of normative marriage as it is expressed in law, religion, and custom. Normative marriage is a form of social control, a way by which behaviors and aspirations are channeled appropriately. It is a force greater than the individuals involved because it represents the collective sentiments of others.
Marriage in this view is qualitatively different from other intimate relationships. Much of the meaning of marriage in men’s lives will be found in these rules. Together, these six premises define marriage that will inform the rest of this work.
b. Do marriages differ according to culture? How is your marriage practice different from marriage in America?
Marriage practices vary across cultures. Every culture has its way of conducting marriage according to its traditions and customs. Most cultures share common customs and practices, while some cultures have unique practices. Even within our country, the marriage practices of one geographical place differ from those of others. However, the Hindu religion is practiced by the majority of Nepalese people.
Marriage practices in Nepal are different than in America. Marriage practices are not so important in the American culture, and couples are free to choose; follow common, or choose a combination of practices. The American culture is not as strong on the institution of marriage as it is in Nepal. The current American society does not consider marriage institutions; their importance comes after career and financial matters. Nepal considers the marriage institution very important and should be treated with all respect by all in the society. The importance of the marriage institution is evident from the marriage practices that have remained consistent in the Nepalese culture. In Nepal, most marriages are arranged by the parents but in America, couples choose their partner themselves.
Moreover, marriage not only connects two individuals (boy and girl) but also unites two different families. There is equal involvement of the parents of the couple in the marriage ritual in Nepal. In this way, the marriage practices differ in our culture than in America.
Reference beyond the text
a. Write an essay on the marriage practice in your own culture.
Marriage Practice in My Culture
Marriage is the social, spiritual, cultural, and legal union between a man and a woman as husband and wife. Nepal has a wide variety of ethnicity and tribal population, giving diversity to the rituals and practices involved in weddings. However, the majority of marriages in Nepal are either according to Hindu tradition or Buddhist traditions. I am from Hindu culture.
In my culture, the groom and his family along with neighbors, relatives, and a music band leave for the bride’s house on the wedding day. The group of people along with the groom and music band is called ‘Janti’. The janti is led by a group of women carrying trays with food and gifts (called ‘Saipata’) for the bride’s family. There is a traditional music band that plays traditional musical instruments called ‘Panche Baja’. Behind them are the groom and the group of people dancing. The wedding ceremony is performed at the bride’s house. On the arrival of janti at the bride’s house, they are welcomed by the parents and relatives of the bride. The saipata is handed to the bride’s family and Janti is welcomed with the feast called ‘Janti Bhoj’ (marriage party). The groom is taken to ‘Jaggey’ or ‘Mandap’ (the place to perform the wedding ritual).
The most important person at the wedding ceremony is ‘Pundit’ (priest). The Pundit performs the marriage ceremony by chanting the ‘mantras’ through the holy book. The marriage ceremony is interesting due to the different rituals performed in front of the sacred fire. There are numerous instructions for the couples while performing the ceremony guided by the Pundit. The ritual is performed by revolving around the sacred fire seven-time with the knot tied between the couples indicating the seven lives of togetherness. The marriage ritual is completed when the groom puts ‘Sindur’ (red vermillion powder) on the bride’s head and ‘Potey’ or ‘Tilari’ (a holy Necklace) around the neck. On the other hand, there is a feast party organized for villagers and janti. Other people enjoy singing and dancing on that particular day. Sindur and Potey have great significance for married women in my culture. After this, the bride’s father washes the feet of the wedded couple and all the relatives and family members will bless them with ‘Tika’ (on the forehead) and gifts. Finally, the married couple along with the janti departs from the bride’s house dancing and celebrating with Panche baja.
The wedded couples are welcomed in the groom’s house by the groom’s family. A lot of entertainment activities and celebrations are carried out at Groom’s house called “Ratyauli”. Ratyauli is the celebration at the groom’s house which includes singing, and dancing and starts a day before the wedding. The marriage ritual is thus the most important as well as an entertaining ritual since whole family members and relatives are involved. The wedded couple starts their new life by sharing their feeling, body, culture, and love for eternity. In this way, the couple begins their newlywed life in my culture.
b. Is marriage a social institution? Discuss.
Marriage is indeed considered a social institution in many societies around the world. It is a legally and socially recognized union between two individuals, typically based on mutual consent, love, and commitment. As a social institution, marriage serves various functions and plays a significant role in shaping the structure and dynamics of a society. In most countries, marriage is a legally recognized institution, entailing certain rights, responsibilities, and obligations for the individuals involved. It provides a framework for the legal and financial aspects of a relationship, such as property rights, inheritance, tax benefits, and access to healthcare and social security.
Marriage often holds deep cultural and religious significance. Different cultures and religions have their own rituals, customs, and traditions associated with marriage. These practices reflect societal norms, values, and beliefs, and can vary widely across different communities. Marriage has historically served as a means of regulating sexual and reproductive relationships within a society. It establishes a socially accepted framework for the expression of sexual intimacy and provides stability for procreation and raising children. The institution of marriage often involves expectations of monogamy or polygamy, depending on cultural norms. Marriage contributes to social cohesion and stability by providing a recognized structure for intimate relationships. It establishes a framework for family units, which are the building blocks of society. The institution of marriage helps to organize and maintain social order by defining kinship ties, roles, and responsibilities within families and communities. Marriage often involves the pooling of resources and mutual support between partners. It provides a framework for economic cooperation, shared financial responsibilities, and division of labor within the household. Additionally, marriage can offer emotional support, companionship, and a sense of belonging for individuals. The concept of marriage has evolved over time and varies across cultures. In recent years, there has been an increasing recognition of diverse forms of relationships beyond the traditional heterosexual marriage, such as same-sex marriages and civil partnerships. These changes reflect shifting societal attitudes, legal reforms, and a broader understanding of human rights and equality.
It is important to note that while marriage is a widely recognized social institution, not all individuals or societies adhere to this institution. In some cultures, alternative relationship structures or arrangements exist, such as cohabitation, polyamory, or communal living. These variations highlight the complexity and diversity of human relationships and challenge the notion of marriage as the only valid or preferred form of partnership. Overall, marriage remains a prominent social institution that encompasses legal, cultural, economic, and emotional dimensions. However, its form and significance can vary across different societies, cultures, and historical periods, reflecting the ever-evolving nature of human relationships and social norms.
Click for Limbu Marriage: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-5jsJz039do
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