Form and Variation in Balinese Village Structure

Abstract

(Originally published in American Anthropologist, 1959, 61.) Describes the intricacies of the Balinese village structure, drawing on 1957/58 fieldwork in 25 villages in the regions of Tabanan & Klungkung. Although simplicity & uniformity are Balinese virtues, the village-organized social system incorporates variation as one of its major themes. The planes of social organization are analyzed, centering on the symbolic & unifying power of the temple. Balinese villages use temples for all major collective action, constructing them for agriculture, burials, gardens, maritime work, & celebrations of nature. The family structure is defined in terms of how it expands into the political-territorial base of the village. Cultural expressions of village unity are explored, highlighting dances, music, & places set aside for reflection concerning the value of familial connection. The social structures of the villages Njalian, Tihingan, & Blaju are compared to underline local variations. 1 Figure, 9 References. D. Bajo