AFLAREA VIITOAREI MESERII – O PRACTICĂ DE INTEGRARE SOCIALĂ A PRUNCULUI

Once the baby turs one, it is customary in the North-Eastern part of Romania to present her/him with a selection of objects that are symbolic for different occupations. This postliminal rite is strikingy similar with Asian childbirth customs and speaks about the social perception of certain jobs. However, the future is influenced by the choice of certain tools that are believed to assure a wealthy life, while other symbols are rejected or dismissed in time. The paper is based on data from The Folklore Archive of Moldavia and Bucovina and connects the theme of occupational folklore with that of childbirth practices, as found both in villages and towns in the last 50 years. The divination is meant to welcome the new member of the community, under the magic protection of the Godparents.