Many of the most important theoretical contributions to anthropology were first formulated with reference to Melanesian studies. An Introduction to the Anthropology of Melanesia is intended for undergraduate students with some grounding in the issues and ideas that inform the discipline.

Melanesia has always been a popular fieldwork site for anthropologists, including Bronislaw Malinowski and Margaret Mead, and many of the most important theoretical contributions to anthropology were first formulated with reference to Melanesian studies. This book is intended for undergraduate students with some grounding in the issues and ideas that inform the discipline. It will be useful as an introductory or intermediate level for undergraduate studies in general anthropology, or for courses on Pacific Cultures.