COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE CULTURE OF RING WEARING IN DIFFERENT COUNTRIES
Keywords:
ring symbolism, intercultural comparison, anthropology of adornment, marriage customs, globalization, cultural identity.Abstract
This paper explores the cultural diversity and symbolic meanings of ring wearing across different societies. It traces the evolution of rings from ancient Egypt and Rome—where they symbolized eternity, unity, and social order—to their modern significance across Western, Asian, Middle Eastern, African, and Latin American cultures. The study identifies both shared and divergent meanings: in Western societies, rings express romance and individuality; in Asia, they reflect spirituality, aesthetics, and collective identity; in the Middle East and Africa, they denote religious devotion, status, and heritage; while in Latin America and Southern Europe, they merge Catholic and familial traditions. Globalization has encouraged the diffusion of Western engagement and wedding ring customs worldwide, yet local interpretations persist, blending global fashion with traditional beliefs. Ultimately, the act of wearing rings serves as a universal yet culturally nuanced form of expression, encapsulating how human societies negotiate love, faith, and identity through a timeless symbol.
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