The Rites of Passage (book)

"The Rites of Passage" by Arnold van Gennep explores how cultures mark important life transitions—such as birth, adulthood, marriage, and death—through structured ceremonies. Van Gennep identifies a common pattern in these rituals consisting of three stages: separation, where individuals detach from their previous status; transition or liminality, a phase of in-betweenness and transformation; and incorporation, where they are integrated into a new social role. The book highlights how these rites help societies manage change, reinforce social bonds, and clarify individual status, emphasizing their universal importance across different cultures.