Erica Gamester - Liminality

In class we discussed the concept of liminality as the transition of being in between two phases. Many dictionaries do not recognize this as a legitimate word, despite Arnold Van Gennep coining the term in his 1909 anthropological publication titled, Les rites de passage. He described the “rite of passage” journey in a three-part structure: 1) separation, 2) liminal period and, 3) assimilation.

While it is a collective ritual that permeates both cultural and religion, high school graduation can be considered as a rite of passage for most young adults. These students are facing a milestone that signifies that they are now adults in the eyes of the law, however, their maturity may not feel as caught up with their age. However, they have no choice but to separate from their high school career, indicating the first separation phase.

Furthermore, these students face external and internal pressure. They must decide whether they are economically and emotionally capable to further their education or decide another path, such as apply for an entry-level job. As they weigh the pro’s and con’s of their decision, the grey area in-between their teen years and adult life would be considered to be the liminal space.

Suppose one student chose to further their education at their local community college. They would have to learn the lay of the land, or campus. They would also have to learn the new social norms and accommodate their own behavior. Overtime, this student would have assimilated to their new environment and confidently identify as a college student.

While this is a relatable example, since all of us have faced this crossroads in our life, this liminal space is greatly associated with spiritual journeys.  Bar/batmitzfah’s are a great example of this liminal space as the ceremony celebrates the transition from girl/boy to a woman/man.

So now one must introspect, are you occupying a liminal space in your own personal journey?