The Balinese culture is really quite amazing. It is surprising to me how complex and intertwined a less modern culture such as itself can be. I was completely uniformed and ignorant to the Balinese culture. I did not realize the scale of Cockfighting and how it was such an integral part of their society and daily lives. After reading Geertz’s paper I am better informed not only of other cultures but also of the fact that studies about modern topics (Discourse Communities) can be applied to older cultures just as easily.
Balinese Cockfights through the experiences of Geertz, encompass the essence of a discourse community. It not only meets the requirements of a discourse community but rather illustrates a complete comprehensive example of one. The Balinese culture shows that over many generations they have formed a language, system, and attitude all their own. They have rules and regulations that although not centralized to any one source, are understood by all participants. These cannot just be read and memorized form a sheet of paper or a website. They are ingrained in the culture and lifestyle of these people. They are also completely respectful of one another and those who are in charge of the fights. No one is questioned or argued with and only under extreme circumstances is anyone accused of cheating. This is very unlike any modern culture.
It is expressed by Geertz that he and his wife were not initially accepted by the Balinese people. Only after they had fled like everyone else form the police at the illegal Cockfights were they accepted into the community. This illustrates the cultures attitude toward outsiders. The Geertz couple were not illy treated but rather entirely ignored. As far as the Balinese were concerned the Geertz couple did not exist. They began to believe it themselves, that is, until the police raid. Once accepted they were met by extreme generosity and kindness. The Balinese are very hospitable people however, to a new comer, it may not seem so.
The Balinese culture is not just a minor example of a discourse community, they are the meaning and definition of a discourse community.
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