‘Reins And A Whip Make A Good Beast’: The Cultural And Historical Roots of University Hazing

Abstract

What is the origin of university hazing? What sort of meanings are hidden behind the traditional abuse and mistreatment of first-year students? This article reviews the historic roots of hazing as constituted by the confluence of institutional elements—tied to the guild roots of medieval universities—and factors derived from long-standing European violent cultural practices. Using an interdisciplinary methodological perspective, the text analyzes historical information, literary works, and ethnological materials, paying special attention to the ritual and festive manifestations of popular culture, and especially, of youth, as a period culturally perceived and defined as an age of rebelliousness and violence.