Rites of Passage A rite of passage, whether defined as a "ritualistic procedure" (Webster's) or as a "ceremony" (Random House), represents a change of status of an individual in his/her society. Rites of passage are generally thought to ensure smooth and successful life transitions and/or changes of status. All cultures have rites of passage; however, these rites vary greatly between the different cultures. In this essay, many cultures" rites of passage will be described, but first, I shall begin by discussing what we are most familiar with: American rites of passage. Although Am...

• Word Count: 3412
• Approx Pages: 14
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: High School

CUBAN SANTERIA Santeria, which literally means, way of the saints', originated in Cuba. Santeria is considered an Afro-Cuban religion. It has roots in Africa, specifically the Yoruba people in southwestern Nigeria. When Africans were brought to the New World as slaves, they brought with the...

• Word Count: 8386
• Approx Pages: 34
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: High School