Originally published in 1957, analyses the rituals celebrated by groups of kinsmen on the occasion of births, marriages and deaths within the age villages of the Nyakyusa. the connection between the form of the rituals and the kinship structure is examined. The symbolism of the rituals throws great light on the psychological reactions of this African people to death and birth, sin and misfortune, expiation and reconciliation.

Originally published in 1959, this book includes detailed accounts of Nyakyusa traditions of origin, osmology and moral values, often in direct quotations from informants, while part of the book is devoted to a description of Christian missions, the growth of African churches and the conflict between pagan and Christian ethics and practices. The analysis of the effects of cchanges in the social and economic structure on the one hand, and religious beliefs and practices on the other, makes this a study of enduring relevance.