matriklene

Matriklene is a term used in various contexts, often referring to a system or lineage traced through the female line. In social anthropology, it denotes a matrilineal descent system where individuals are recognized as belonging to their mother's family group. This is in contrast to patrilineal systems, where lineage is traced through the father. In matrilineal societies, inheritance of property, titles, and social status typically passes from mother to child, or from a mother's brother to her son.

The concept of matriklene can also extend to other areas where female leadership or primary influence is a defining characteristic. This might appear in discussions of historical or mythological societies, or in contemporary discussions about family structures and power dynamics. While the term is not as commonly used as "matrilineal," it encapsulates the essence of female-centered lineage and authority. Understanding matriklene systems requires recognizing the significance of women's roles in kinship, inheritance, and social organization. These systems highlight the diversity of human social structures and challenge assumptions about universal patriarchal norms.