The Iranian Code of Courtesy [ta'arof]: The Fiction of Social Bonds

The Iranian code of courtesy, ta'arof, is a set of precise rules governing many everyday interactions. After analyzing its underlying ideas about mankind & society, in particular its close relation with Shia, it is shown how this code tries to present an appearance of generalized generosity...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Homme 2006-10 (180), p.115-138
Main Author: Vivier-Muresan, Anne-Sophie
Format: Article
Language:fre
Subjects:
Codes of Conduct
Iran
Social Order
Online Access:Get full text
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Summary:The Iranian code of courtesy, ta'arof, is a set of precise rules governing many everyday interactions. After analyzing its underlying ideas about mankind & society, in particular its close relation with Shia, it is shown how this code tries to present an appearance of generalized generosity, love & humility even if this means throwing a veil over the tensions & violence inherent in any social order. This code thus enables each person to protect the privacy of his being & escape from the hold of others. To emphasize the fact that individuals are not "imprisoned" in these rules of behavior, the "secret codes" & other subtle means are analyzed whereby Iranians manage to foil or manipulate the rules to their advantage. References. Adapted from the source document.
ISSN:0439-4216