Cultural Practices of the Menawan People

In the remote Sumatran archipelago, the Menawan people hold unique ideals of beauty, emphasizing a balance between body and soul. According to legend, humans and spirits were once one, and a displeased soul may leave its body, causing death. To prevent this, the Menawan practice body beautification, including tattoos and the rare, painful ritual of tooth filing. Pongi, a young mother, undergoes this ritual to align with her husband's status as village chief. Despite the pain and potential damage to her teeth, Pongi emerges with a sense of beauty and balance, reflecting the deep cultural significance of these practices.

What is the primary belief of the Menawan people regarding beauty?

• Beauty is about maintaining balance between body and soul.

• Beauty is determined by wealth.

• Beauty is only skin deep.

• Beauty is a result of physical strength.

According to Menawan legend, what happens if a soul is unhappy with its body?

• The soul becomes stronger.

• The person becomes more beautiful.

• The soul leaves, causing the person to die.

• The person becomes ill.

What is one method the Menawan use to beautify the body and keep the spirit from wandering?

• Singing

• Dancing

• Tattooing

• Wearing jewelry

Why is tooth filing considered a rare practice among the Menawan?

• It is painless.

• It is only for men.

• It is a modern practice.

• It is painful and less common than tattoos.

What influenced Pongi's decision to undergo tooth filing?

• Her personal desire for beauty

• A dream she had

• Her husband's encouragement and his status

• A village tradition

How do the Menawan villagers prepare for the tooth filing ritual?

• By wearing special clothes

• By singing traditional songs

• By fasting for a week

• By gathering at the communal house

What is the role of the shaman during the tooth filing ritual?

• To guide the spirits

• To provide anesthetic

• To sing traditional songs

• To sharpen the tools and perform the procedure

What is the immediate effect of the tooth filing on Pongi?

• She becomes ill.

• She feels relieved and happy.

• She feels no change.

• She regrets her decision.

What does Pongi believe about her new appearance after the tooth filing?

• She looks older.

• She looks more beautiful for her husband.

• She looks the same.

• She looks less beautiful.

What is the ultimate goal of beauty practices among the Menawan?

• To gain social status

• To compete with other tribes

• To keep the soul in balance

• To attract wealth