2. Definition
Marriage has many definitions.
In Ireland marriage can be defined as
“a legally binding union between a man and a
women with the exclusion of all others”
In some countries, same sex marriages are
accepted, however this is prohibited by Irish
Law
3. Cultural Variations of Marriage
1. Minimum Age
In Ireland it is 18 years (16 with parental
consent).
2. Arranged Marriages
Parents decide on child’s spouse based on
suitability and background.
Popular in cultures such as India.
Marriage is arranged from young age.
4. 3. Choice of Partners
Restriction on the choice is based on religion,
class or blood relationship.
In Ireland there are restrictions based on
blood relationships and relationships by
marriage.
Cultural Variations of Marriage
5. 4. Number of Partners
a. Monogamy
One person has one spouse.
Most common type of marriage in Western
Society.
Only type recognised by Irish Law.
b. Serial Monogamy
One person marries and divorces several times.
c. Bigamy
Person enters into a second marriage while
still legally married to another person.
Cultural Variations of Marriage
6. 4. Number of Partners
d. Polygamy
Involves more than one partner.
Not acceptable in Western Societies.
Two forms of Polygamy
1. Polyandry
2. Polygyny
Cultural Variations of Marriage
7. Polygyny
• Marriage involves ONE MAN and two or more women.
• Polygynous marital relations are commonly practiced
in African nations and Islamic community.
• Dominant figure is the MAN, who controls all financial
aspects and decision making
This is known as Patriarchal (man dominates).
8.
9. Polyandry
• Marriage involves ONE WOMAN and more than one
man.
• Popular in certain Tibetan Tribes and among the Inuit
Eskimos.
• Occurs in very poor cultures where a number of
working males are considered necessary to support
one wife and children.
• Obeys husbands’ wishes.
• One child from each husband.
10.
11. Cultural Variations of Marriage
5. Wedding Ceremonies and Customs
Jewish weddings are held under a canopy which
is symbolic of the couple’s future home.
At the end of the ceremony a glass is broken
under the groom’s foot to symbolise the
destruction of the ancient Jewish temple in
Jerusalem and to remind the couple that a
marriage can also break.
12. 5. Wedding Ceremonies and Customs
• Many of the wedding customs with which we
are familiar with have been popular for
centuries.
• Roman brides wore veils 2,000 years ago &
exchanged rings, symbolising eternity & the
unity of husband & wife forever.
• The wearing of the ring on the third finger
of the left hand is an ancient tradition. People
believed that a nerve ran directly from that
finger to the heart.
Cultural Variations of Marriage
13. Match the Following Terms
Bigamy One Man marries
many women
Polyandry One Man one women
Polygyny One Women many men
Monogamy Marry again while still
legally married to
another
14. Rights and Responsibilities of
Married Couples in Ireland
• Each spouse is entitled to live together.
• Each spouse is expected to remain faithful to the
other.
• The Maintenance of Spouse and Children’s Act 1976
states that each spouse Financially support one
another.
• Legally any child born must be looked after physically,
morally and socially. Joint Custody and
responsibilities for care and upbringing shared.
15. • Succession Act 1965:
If there is no will after death of one spouse:
The surviving spouse is entitled to the entire estate.
If there are children the surviving spouse is entitled
to two thirds of the estate.
Rights and Responsibilities of
Married Couples in Ireland
16. • A wedding must take place in a recognised place of
worship, in a registry office or in a venue which has
been inspected and approved in advance by a
Registrar in accordance with guidelines laid down by
the Minister. Can apply for temporary registration.
• Two witnesses.
• Three months notice must be given to the registrar.
• Marriages must be registered after the ceremony.
What Makes a Marriage Valid?
17. What Makes a Marriage Valid?
• Marriage must be entered into voluntarily by both
partners.
• Partners must be over 18.
• In Ireland, partners must be of opposite sex.
• Neither spouse may be in an existing marriage.
• Couples are restricted by blood relationships.
