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..::Semiotics::..

Tattoos and piercing can be seen throughout human civilization. These forms of body modification have deep symbolic meaning to the different cultures that they exist in. If compared to the modern Western societies, there are parallels between the two cultures. This signifies anthological rationales behind these modifications. As far back as 2000 BC, Egypt, tattoos are evident on the arms of priests and Gods. These tattoos are often of Egyptian symbols, arm bands or gods. Though there are no actual proven symbolism to the tattooing, one can predict that the tattoos are symbolic of someone more powerful, more important. American Indians believed war paint protected them in battle. In the 19th century merchant sailors wore tattoos as a talisman against the ever-present possibility of drowning at sea. Even today, Many Burmese believe that a tattoo over the heart can stop bullets.

According to Samoans, tattooing is more than alterations to the physical body; it transforms the wearer's sense of self. Samoans wearing traditional tattoo almost universally speak of the inner change they experience while undergoing the process of outward marking. While the tattoo is a permanent and highly visible commitment, most Samoans feel the aspect of pain during the process is equally important, as they share in the collective suffering of those tattooed before them. It is this pain that strengthens their personal ties to family, community, history, and culture, ultimately providing the wearer with a sense of "completion" regarding his or her "Samoanness". (Sowell, 2002) As modern society evolve, many lose the connection between their history, past and families. As a connection, like the Samoans, many descendants ink the same tattoo that their parents got; in order to hold onto has family history. Others obtain tattoos to symbolize personal experiences, changes and struggles in life. Many people in modern civilization lose the ability to find strength, since religion has become more and more dubious. Therefore, they obtain a tattoo hoping to embody the spirit of the creature for strength, sensuality, tranquility, or any other attributes the creature symbolizes.

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