Symbols and Meaning: A Concise Introduction

by Mari Womack

Womack offers a concise and easy-to-read overview of the power and meaning of symbols in all human societies. She describes how symbols_images, words, or behaviors with multi-layered meanings_are mechanism of communication. She demonstrates how we experience the power of symbols in all aspects of human life: birth, death, love, sexual desire, and the need for food and shelter. Womack investigates the use of symbols in the language of religion, healing, politics, social organization and control, popular culture, psychology, philosophy, semiotics, magic and expressive culture, including art, aesthetics, literature, theater, sports, and music. The author's eclectic, anthropological approach incorporates the social, conceptual and psychological dynamics of symbols. Her new book is an essential introductory textbook for courses that define fundamental concepts in religion, cultural anthropology, communication, and art.

Genres: Anthropology

176 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2005

Reviews

[Shauna Mckelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Tonight, someone in this very city,will die for a symbol." The author makes this surprising statement in the opening chapter and comes back to the point repeatedly throughout the text. The text covers a large amount of ground in a small amount of space. Her explanations are clear, and the author never loses sight of the fact that there is a reader who is receiving the message. Topics include signs versus symbols, the different approaches to anthropology, the contributions various other disciplines have made to anthropology, creation myths, marriage rituals, and even a bit on technology.

This book is easy to understand and packed with useful and interesting information. The text is accessible and gives the reader much food for thought as well as suggestions about sources of further information.

[Lars · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading for ANT 3133 Ritual and Symbol. Good concise overview of the uses of ritual and symbol in culture. Brings multiple viewpoints and plenty of theory to lay groundwork for further learning.