Geertz summary

“Deep Play: Notes on the Balinese Cockfight,” can be summarized as an overall commentary on the Balinese culture through deep examination of the ritual of cockfighting.  Geertz analyzed the cockfight from various angles, in essence using it as a medium in which to portray the meaning of the Balinese cultural. 

            Geertz began by commenting on the exclusivity of the culture by describing how his wife and he were treated with indifference initially.  The culture did not allow the outsiders in until they showed their loyalty by running from local police when caught at a cockfight.  Loyalty was also addressed in that the Balinese almost always bet on and support the cock of their kin. 

           

            Geertz commented on lack of materialism and social structure in the culture.  While the Balinese disliked losing money in a bet, the cockfight focused less on materialism and more on aspects of pride.  He differentiated between “deep fights,” those in which the cocks were more evenly matched and prominent members of society involved, verses “shallow fights,” lesser in both status and money involved in the betting.  The “deep fights” were thus a reflection of status rather than a reflection of gambling, and therefore more unpredictable.

Those members of society who view cockfighting as a gambling game and consistently participate in “shallow fights” are looked down upon as petty and those who do not understand the deeper meaning. Also in this way, the essay reports how cockfighting is a representation of social groups and hierarchy.   Although it may appear a mere sport or enjoyment via gambling and competition, in actuality the fight represents social structure.  “Deep fights” that attract a crowd and higher bets include more prominent members of society.  Thus, the Balinese essentially contribute to social divisions by participating in grandiose cockfights as opposed to lesser ones. 

The essay concluded by describing the cockfight as a story the Balinese tell themselves about themselves, thus discovering the temperament of the society as a whole.  As Geertz put it, cockfighting is the “master key to Balinese life,” and a definite avenue for anthropologists to get a concise feel for the cultural.