Author
William Henry Furness
1866-1920
William Henry Furness (1866-1920) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by William Henry Furness
The home-life of Borneo head-hunters : $b Its festivals and folk-lore
"The Home-Life of Borneo Head-Hunters: Its Festivals and Folk-Lore" by William Henry Furness, 3rd is a detailed ethnographic account written in the early 20th century. The work explores the daily lives, traditions, and cultural practices of the Kayan and Kenyah tribes in Borneo, particularly focusing on their home life, superstitious beliefs, and the intricate social structures of these communities. The author, an experienced traveler and anthropologist, provides an insider's view into the rituals and customs that define the identity of these tribes. At the start of the text, Furness shares his deep admiration and affection for the people of Borneo, despite their brutal reputation as head-hunters. He reflects on the contrasting perceptions of their simplicity and complexity, describing their family dynamics, living situations, and cultural practices with both admiration and a hint of paternalism. He details the architectural style of their longhouses, the significance of communal life, and the rituals surrounding key life events, including naming ceremonies for children born into the families of chiefs. These opening chapters set the stage for an exploration of the rich ethnological tapestry of Borneo, blending observations of home life with insights into their folklore and the underlying values of the people.
The island of stone money : $b Uap of the Carolines
"The Island of Stone Money: Uap of the Carolines" by William Henry Furness is an ethnographic account written in the early 20th century. The work explores the culture, society, and unique practices of the people living on the island of Uap in the Caroline Islands. The author dives into various aspects of life on the island, including social structures, traditional beliefs, and distinctive customs like the use of stone money, providing a glimpse into the intersection of indigenous culture and the influences of colonialism. At the start of the narrative, Furness introduces the reader to Uap and its inhabitants, describing his arrival and initial experiences on the island. The narrative captures the enchanting natural beauty contrasted with the challenges of navigating the surrounding reefs. He details the people's gentle disposition and describes the primary settlement and living conditions on the island, emphasizing their simplicity and the hospitality of the residents. He also touches on the impact of colonial governance and the traditions that have been retained despite external influences, setting the stage for deeper explorations into the island's customs, governance, and social life in the subsequent chapters.
Folk-lore in Borneo : $b a sketch
"Folk-lore in Borneo: A Sketch" by William Henry Furness is an anthropological exploration of the myths and traditions of the Bornean peoples, written in the late 19th century. This work serves as a study of the diverse folklore found among the various tribes of Borneo, who share no common written language and possess rich yet isolated cultural narratives shaped by their unique environments and lifestyles. The book highlights the cultural practices, beliefs, and mythologies that permeate their society, giving readers insight into the life and customs of these indigenous communities. The content of the book provides a detailed look at the creation myths, societal structures, and superstitions of the Bornean tribes, including the Kayans and Dayaks. Furness shares several creation stories from different tribes, illustrating how they perceive the origins of humanity and the natural world around them. He describes the significance of ritual practices, such as head-hunting, which is intertwined with their beliefs about the afterlife and bravery. Through narratives about mythological characters and the spiritual beliefs surrounding nature, Furness sheds light on how these folklore traditions inform the daily lives and customs of the Bornean people, reflecting their deep connections to their environment and cultural heritage.
A Discourse for the Time, delivered January 4, 1852 in the First Congregational Unitarian Church
"A Discourse for the Time, delivered January 4, 1852 in the First Congregational…" by W. H. Furness is a powerful religious discourse written in the early 19th century. This book is a sermon that addresses critical societal and political issues of the time, primarily focusing on the interconnectedness of individual lives and public affairs. The discourse highlights the pressing matters of freedom and humanity amidst the political turmoil in Europe, especially reflecting on events in France, while urging individuals to recognize their responsibilities toward public welfare. In this discourse, Furness argues that no person lives in isolation and emphasizes the importance of civic engagement and social responsibility. He uses the recent brutal events in France as a backdrop to illustrate the dangers of apathy towards public matters, warning that indifference can lead to dire consequences for individuals, regardless of their desire to remain uninvolved. Furness fervently advocates for a collective moral conscience that recognizes the responsibility of each individual to participate in the greater good of humanity. He urges his audience to embrace their duties not only as citizens but as moral beings connected by a shared humanity, particularly in the face of systemic oppression, such as slavery in America, which he argues directly impacts the fight for liberty and justice everywhere.