Clowning as Political Commentary: Polynesia, Then ... - ScholarSpace
Clowning as Political Commentary: Polynesia, Then ... - ScholarSpace
Clowning as Political Commentary: Polynesia, Then ... - ScholarSpace
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THE CONTEMPORARY PACIFIC. SPRING 1994<br />
tion h<strong>as</strong> changed dramatically, owing largely to the influence of introduced religions<br />
and colonialism. The disappearance of this traditional outlet in many<br />
islands in contemporary <strong>Polynesia</strong> means the loss of a safety valve for the rele<strong>as</strong>e<br />
of tension and for healthy criticism that contributes to the improvement of the<br />
quality of life. This article examines a traditional institution that h<strong>as</strong> been overlooked<br />
by scholars until recent years and argues for the importance of avenuestraditional<br />
or modern-through which the oppressed in society can channel their<br />
grievances and needs in a nonthreatening and creative manner to those who wield<br />
power over them.
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