Madagascar Research Paper

Introduction Madagascar is a breath-taking tropical island found in the Indian Ocean. It is known for its pristine beaches and stunning views along side a fusion different cultures. With its main influences being Asian and African culture, Malagasy culture has developed its own, unique blend of flavors, ideas, and practices. For instance, fady is used to describe something that is taboo, and an example of this would be foreigner visiting ancestral grave sites. There are many customs and practices that foreigners would find completely normal, however, in Madagascar, they are fady, or vice versa. One of their more peculiar customs includes the ceremony of famidihana. It is the process of removing the old wrappings of someone who has recently …show more content…
Because of the unique blend of cultures in Madagascar, a variety of instruments can be found here. A Valiha is an instrument made of bamboo, and it is used to play traditional music. Along with the music, the cuisine of Madagascar has an assortment of tastes and flavors that cannot be found anywhere in the world. The national dish of Madagascar is Romazava, which is a savory dish made with beef, rice, and herbs, among other things. Malagasy society is close knit community with strong bonds and relationships between the members. Furthermore, many of the festivals and holidays are celebrated with dancing and music along with a wonderful array of savory and sweet dishes. Madagascar is a beautifully diversified country with its rich history and …show more content…
Hainteny relies heavily on the use of metaphor and riddles and can be used to debate or settle a verbal situation that seems to have no answer (Hering). After Colonization by the French, these forms of poetry manifested into some of the first African Literature to be heralded by Western critics. The most famous of these poets was Jean-Joseph Rabearivelo. Rabearivelo’s work was in the surrealist genre, and his poems often reflected themes of desperation and despair that were present in Malagasy culture during French Colonial rule (The Editors). The most revered of these oral traditions is the tale of Ibonia. Ibonia is a Herculean type figure, born to a barren mother. He is a strong warrior and cultural icon who was divinely chosen. The tale is also a one of coming of age as the Hero Ibonia has to overcome a series of physical and mental tasks, culminating in a victory to marry his one true love. The epic exemplifies values of intelligence and strength that the Malagasy cherish to this day