Folk-lore in Borneo

Name: Folk-lore in Borneo
Author: William Henry Furness

By William Henry Furness

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About This Book

A compact ethnographic sketch outlines the varied folk beliefs of Borneo's interior tribes, stressing linguistic and cultural diversity and the absence of written records. It describes communal longhouses, household elders and tribal chiefs, practical crafts such as weaving and boat- and house-building, and the persistence of head-hunting and reciprocal vengeance. The worldview is chiefly animistic: every tree, rock, and pool may harbor spirits, omens guide daily life, and many tribes preserve distinct creation accounts. One Kayan version relates a primeval rock becoming soil through tiny creatures, a paradisiacal tree arising from a sun-born parang-handle, and a moon-vine marrying the tree to beget the first humans.

About the Author

William Henry Furness

William Henry Furness was an American Unitarian minister and author known for his contributions to anthropology and folklore. His works often explore the cultural practices of indigenous peoples, particularly in Borneo. Among his notable writings is "Folk-lore in Borneo," which delves into the rich traditions and customs of the region's inhabitants. Furness also delivered significant discourses, such as "A Discourse for the Time," reflecting his engagement with contemporary social issues. His scholarly approach and dedication to understanding diverse cultures have left a lasting impact on the study of folklore and anthropology.