Polygamy, power, and patriarchy: Gendered social mobility and symbolic capital in Madura’s blater culture

Abstract

This study investigates the dynamics of polygamy and its impact on the social status of wives within the blater community in Tanjungbumi, Bangkalan, Madura. Specifically, to identify the factors that contribute to harmonious relationships in polygamous households and to assess the effect of being a blater’s wife on women’s social status. The study adopts a qualitative case study methodology, utilizing in-depth interviews, and participant observation as primary data collection methods. There are 17 informants involved, including polygamous blater couples, individuals previously in polygamous marriages, those who are not practicing polygamy, and local community leaders. The finding shows that the motivations for engaging in polygamy among blaters include the desire to reinforce their identity, increase descendants, fulfill personal preferences, secure male heirs, assert social influence, and achieve financial stability. The result of the study underscores that polygamy positively influences the social status of wives and family income, as it enhances their position within the community. This elevation in social standing is largely attributed to the prominent status of the blater group in the region, despite the behaviors associated with polygamy being frequently perceived as marginal or deviant.