earticle

영어

The purpose of this study is to present a desirable model of memorial rites on the basis of their essential significance, as recognized by middle-aged housewives. This study was based on an interview survey that was conducted with 40 housewives in their 40's and 50's who live in Seoul. The interviews were carried out from August 1, 2009 to October 20, 2009, using a semi-structured questionnaire. The main results of this study can be summarized as follows: First, the middle-aged housewives recognized the significance of memorial rites as an expression of their sincerity, or as a cultural demonstration of affection commemorating their ancestors. Secondly, the housewives mentioned possible changes to different memorial rites depending on the will of their children's generation. These included a grafting of different memorial rites between religions, or a shift of the memorial rites to a religious institution or a memorial facility, in addition to maintaining the current practice in one’s home. Thirdly, we proposed memorial rites that are carried out in one’s home (Confucian, Christian, Confucian plus Catholic, or Confucian plus Buddhist style), a religious institution (Catholic church or Buddhist temple), and a memorial facility (arboretum, graveyard or enshrine facility).