An ethnographic investigation of master-slave relation in Sumba, Indonesia.

This study examines the master-slave power relation phenomenon between Maramba and Ata in East Sumba, Indonesia. This phenomenon is yet to be widely studied unlike the caste system in India or the slavery in North America. The term being used to define the system in this study is itself still contested. I argue in this study that the caste system, the practices of slavery and concubinage are all simultaneously present. However, the degree of slavery is more prominent, and therefore this study emphasizes on analyzing the slavery system. By using ethnography approach and adopting Joan W. Scott’s framework, this study analyzes how cultural symbols, ideology and social institutions existing in the villages contribute to the construction of identity and the sustaining of the slavery system. Evidences from the fieldwork showed that the continuity of slavery practices is resulted from the solid attachment of the people to their cultural symbols that widen the gap between Maramba and Ata. The hegemonic ideology where people believe in ‘blood purity’ and the greatness of Maramba is also continuously produced, practiced and sustained. Furthermore, local institutions, including rule and regulation, especially the adat, and the division of roles and sanctions in the society provide the solid platform in governing and forcing the people to adhere to their tradition.