| Description |
1 online resource (streaming video file) (51 min. 33 sec.) ; 312636579 bytes |
| Series |
Tribe ; Series 3, Episode 1 |
| Summary |
Bruce Parry returns for another inspirational series of Tribe. In the first episode Bruce takes a long trip to the vast Vale do Javari Indigenous Park, an area of 32,000 sq miles in the far west of Brazil, to live and breathe amongst the Matis. Despite all that's happened to them since first contact in the mid-1970s, the Matis remain a vibrant cultural force. They are a remarkably playful people for whom the longhouse remains a cultural focus and the skills needed to use a 3.5 metre-long blowpipe are deeply respected.Upon arrival at the village, Bruce discovers that the Matis are very cautious about his motives for being there. The tribesmen explain that they had been burned by "outsiders" in the past who wanted to exploit their culture for personal gain. After stressing that he is there to learn and participate in their culture Bruce is accepted as part of the tribe and warmly welcomed into the home of a traditional Matis family.Bruce quickly discovers that hunting is a vital skill for the Matis' survival. But before they will allow him to join them on their hunting expeditions, the tribe insist that he first partake in customs that will help hone his skill. Although reluctant, Bruce partakes in rituals that include the administration of kampo (a frog poison), ceremonial whipping (the mariwin ceremony), having a painful bitter juice dropped into the eyes, being slapped with a leaf containing a powerful irritant (poces) and drinking tatxi (an earthy, bitter drink made from a rare root). Although painful, the Matis believe that these rituals signify a man's passage to becoming a hunter and are repeated throughout his life to improve his skills.After listening to the elders of the village, Bruce understands the implication that "outside" contact has had on the Matis. Not only has the tradition culture been discarded by the youth of the tribe, but new diseases have become prevalent such as Hepatitis B. But after spending time with them, it is clear to Bruce that this close knit, warm people are determined to preserve their traditions and continue to survive. (From the UK, in English and Matis, English subtitles) (Documentary Series) (Part 1 of 6) PG CC WS |
| Event |
Broadcast 2010-06-14 at 20:30:00 |
| Notes |
Classification: PG |
| Subject |
Group identity.
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Hunting.
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Manners and customs.
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Mayoruna Indians.
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Medicine, Preventive.
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Amazon River Region.
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| Form |
Streaming video
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| Author |
Parry, Bruce, host
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