Tribal to Trend: The Revitalization of Body Modification {Draft}

     Body modification has traditional been recognized as tribal, primitive, and counter to the main culture. It has not been until the more recent years that outwardly displays of tattoos and piercings have penetrated dominant society. The symbolism and artistry has even changed and is depended upon an individual perception rather than a societal perception.

   

     Tattooing and piercing were culturally acceptable in native cultures of the Americas and in Africa. In these cultures, the process of body modification comes in many different forms and as the same for the purpose of which one under goes this ritual. There are several ways in which to modify ones body; scarification, tattoo, and piercing (typically more for body art and not for enhancement such as breast implants).  Body modification was often a part of a spiritual ritual or rite of passage, with the help of someone else, to permanently scar one's own body.

   

 This could be considered body art and could also determine one's status, age, or wealth. Many of the modifications that are seen today are replicated by those outside the ethnic group but have some appreciation for the art work itself..... 



Paper will include the following:

    Introduction, including thesis
    Historical summarization
    Modern day summarization of main arguments
    {Including citations and other authors work}
    Conclusion of my own thoughts and interpretations