Going Tribal Season 1 Episode 2 Living with Cannibals
- August 16, 2005
In season 1 episode 2 of Going Tribal, titled Living with Cannibals, host Bruce Parry journeys to the remote island of Papua New Guinea to live with the Korowai tribe. The Korowai are one of the few tribes known to still practice cannibalism, and Parry is determined to learn more about this taboo cultural practice.
Upon arriving in the jungle, Parry meets with a local guide who takes him deep into Korowai territory. Along the way, they encounter several members of the tribe who are initially wary of the outsider's presence. However, after some bonding over shared experiences, Parry is eventually welcomed into the community.
As Parry settles into life with the Korowai, he learns about their belief system, rituals, and daily routines. He witnesses several important ceremonies, including one that involves the sacrifice of a pig. He also learns about the tribe's complex social structure, which is based on age and gender.
However, the most shocking aspect of the Korowai's culture is their history of cannibalism. Parry speaks with several members of the tribe who openly discuss their past practices of eating human flesh. They explain that the cannibalism was born out of a desire to avenge deaths or as a way to absorb the strength of one's enemies.
Parry grapples with his own feelings about this taboo practice as he witnesses an actual cannibalism ritual. Despite his discomfort, he remains respectful of the Korowai's traditions and acknowledges that their way of life is vastly different from his own.
Throughout the episode, Parry also explores the stunning natural beauty of Papua New Guinea's rainforest, encountering a diverse array of plant and animal life. He also spends time getting to know the local flora and fauna, which are essential to the Korowai's survival.
Overall, Living with Cannibals is a thought-provoking and eye-opening exploration of a little-known tribe and their unique way of life. Parry's open-mindedness and willingness to immerse himself in a culture that is vastly different from his own make for a compelling viewing experience.