Chapter 1: Introduction to African Literature
Review the rich and diverse landscape of African literature, from its roots in oral storytelling traditions to its modern evolution. The world of African literature that can be a treasure trove of captivating narratives, vibrant storytelling, and compelling voices wanting to find be discovered. As book enthusiasts, we invite something you think you would like a journey to unlock the riches of African literature and delve toward untold stories which have shaped the continent's literary heritage.
African literature that can be a testament to the facility of words, while it is being deeply intertwined considering the oral traditions which were captured through generations. In advance of the written word was prominent, African communities relied upon the oral transmission of stories, myths, and legends to convey their history, beliefs, and values. Griots, the normal storytellers, held an esteemed role inside the community, serving because the custodians of oral literature and preserving the collective memory of their own people.
This rich tradition of oral storytelling laid the foundation for the diverse tapestry of African literature we've today. Leaving your epic tales of Sundiata Keita in West Africa on top of the oral poetry whatever the Zulu people in South Africa, these stories were woven along the very fabric of African society. They celebrated bravery, love, wisdom, and moral lessons, serving furthermore as entertainment but in addition as educational tools, guiding individuals on their path to self-discovery.
With the arrival of writing systems plus the colonization of Africa, a new chapter in African literature emerged. African writers, both on the continent along with the diaspora, began by utilizing the written word as a way to challenge dominant narratives, voice their experiences, and reclaim their cultural heritage. This literary renaissance ushered in a wealth of narratives that offered unique perspectives on African history, identity, together with the struggles faced by its people.
Within the mid-1920s, the waves of African independence movements further fueled the growth of African literature. Writers corresponding to Chinua Achebe, Wole Soyinka, and Ngugi wa Thiong'o emerged as literary giants, from various time and labor to explore post-colonial themes, social injustice, from the complexities of cultural identity. Their novels, plays, and poetry played an important role in shaping the African literary canon and capturing the spirit the most continent in transition.
Today, African literature goes on to evolve, embracing a wide range of genres, styles, and themes. From contemporary fiction that tackles pressing societal issues to magical realism that seamlessly blends reality and myth, African writers are pushing the boundaries of storytelling. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Ayobami Adebayo, and Yaa Gyasi, and the like, are amplifying diverse voices and shedding light found on the intricate layers of African experiences.
The power of African literature is contained in its ability to connect readers with a world steeped in history, culture, and human experiences that will are commonly previously unfamiliar. Through vibrant prose, vivid descriptions, and engaging narratives, African authors offer readers a window along the complexities of African societies, providing insights and fostering empathy across geographical and cultural divides.
As book enthusiasts, we're fortunate to embark about this literary exploration together, uncovering the wonders of African literature and immersing this economy the untold stories pushing aside be discovered. Join us just as we delve deeper within the next much of this chapter, where we will take you on a journey through the various genres and key authors that have shaped African literature. Organize be captivated, enlightened, and inspired the richness of African storytelling.
<*End it does not matter chapter*African literature, with its skill to transport readers to distant lands, ignite the imagination, and challenge preconceived notions, has captivated book enthusiasts across the world. Totally not as this chapter, we embarked on a journey through the origins of African literature, from its roots in oral storytelling traditions to its transformation into a strong written form. Now, that most of us delve deeper into your second half, we are going to uncover the vibrant genres and influential authors that have shaped the African literary landscape.
One of the most prominent genres in African literature which happens to be the novel. Away from early works of Chinua Achebe offered contemporary writings of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, African novelists have deftly captured the complexities of African society and basically ongoing struggles. Their stories navigate themes of identity, power dynamics, colonialism, considering the clash of traditional and modern values.
A standout figure in African literary history is Chinua Achebe, whose groundbreaking novel "Things Fall Apart" explores the impact of European colonialism on Igbo society in Nigeria. By portraying the transformation swapped protagonist, Okonkwo, and showcasing the rich cultural heritage no matter Igbo people, Achebe shattered stereotypes and provided a platform for African voices it doesn't need to be heard globally.
As African literature evolved, so practiced the exploration of other genres, resembling poetry and drama. Poets like Leopold Sedar Senghor and Christopher Okigbo captured the gist African beauty, spirituality, and struggles through their lyrical verses. Senghor's thought "Negritude" celebrated the African cultural identity, challenging the Eurocentric perspective prevalent during his time.
In the context of drama, Wole Soyinka, Africa's first Nobel Laureate in Literature, played an instrumental role. His play "Death and to discover the King's Horseman" delves into your clash between African traditional beliefs and British colonial rule in Nigeria. Soyinka's works moreover entertained but also held a duplicate to society, highlighting social and political issues while preserving African cultural heritage.
Another genre that produced prominence lately is African speculative fiction. Authors like Nnedi Okorafor and Tade Thompson have embraced the realm no matter fantastical to address contemporary African issues and reimagine African narratives. Through aspects of hallucination, fantasy, and magical realism, they challenge traditional boundaries and envision alternate futures with regards to a continent.
African women writers, too, guide an indelible mark situated on the literary landscape. Off from empowering prose of Buchi Emecheta offered nuanced storytelling of Tsitsi Dangarembga, their works showcase the unique experiences and resilience of African women. By amplifying their voices, these authors have paved the way for many people to tell their untold stories.
Beyond novels, poetry, drama, and speculative fiction, African literature encompasses an unlimited a number of genres and forms, including short stories, memoirs, and essays. The variety and multiplicity of voices within African literature reflect the rich tapestry for all your serious continent itself.
As book enthusiasts, we experience the privilege of immersing this economy these literary treasures and embracing the complexities of African storytelling. Each page presents solutions challenge our perspectives, foster empathy, and deepen our understanding people around us.
So, allow us to continue this exploration together, embracing the magic of African literature and relishing in the untold stories that await discovery. With each turn it does not matter page, we are going to uncover new narratives, explore vibrant genres, and join up with the voices that shape this remarkable literary tradition. Open your hearts and minds, for about the riches of African literature are im waiting to be unlocked.
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Chapter 2: The Power of Storytelling in African Culture
Within the continent as diverse and vibrant as Africa, storytelling occupies a central home its rich tapestry of traditions and customs. Passed on from down the family, stories in African culture aren't mere entertainment yet a robust tool that connects people, preserves history, and imparts wisdom. The respected art of storytelling weaves a complex web of narratives that collectively as a result of the backbone of African literature.
In the center of African storytelling lies the oral tradition, a singular solution for communication contains withstood the assessment of time. Unlike written literature, which serves as a crucial medium in lots of cultures, African storytelling places emphasis on the spoken word. This oral tradition is deeply embedded throughout the roots of African society, serving to be the means of preserving heritage and passing down knowledge to the next generation to another.
Storytelling in African culture is not exclusively for specific spaces or occasions but permeates many paths of life. From sacred rituals to everyday conversations, stories are interwoven into the material of African society. The village elders become the custodians of these tales, entrusted with this responsibility of preserving the collective memory with their communities. Through their narratives, they educate, inspire, and connect a subsequent generations because of the roots.
Perhaps the role of African storytelling truly exceptional is its power to transcend some time and place. Oral narratives will not be static entities having said that living and breathing stories that fine-tune the changing needs and context off from their audience. A story may evolve as part of retold, reflecting the influences of different cultures and experiences. This dynamic nature enables the continued relevance of African narratives, ensuring their resonance in contemporary times.
The importance of storytelling in African culture lies not just in its role when you're a strategy to obtain entertainment but in addition as a robust conduit for cultural preservation. Stories serve as a bridge with the use of past, present, and future, allowing communities to maintain reality of identity and belonging. Through storytelling, African societies honor their ancestors, celebrate their collective achievements, and transmit their values and traditions to younger generations.
The standard storyteller, described as griot or jali, holds a revered position within African communities. They possess an encyclopedic information about history, folklore, and mythology, and function the keepers irregardless of oral tradition. At rhythmic voices and captivating gestures, the griots mesmerize their audiences, transporting each of them and a world full of gods, heroes, and magical creatures. Their tales inspire listeners to ponder life's mysteries, instill moral lessons, and ignite their imagination.
While African storytelling has deep roots in the oral tradition, its impact has expanded far beyond spoken words. With the appearance of written literature, African authors have embraced the written word being a kind medium to amplify their voices and share their stories having the world. Influenced by the rich heritage of oral storytelling, African literature draws upon the power of narratives to illuminate the varied experiences and struggles no matter the continent.
Lately, there was a resurgence of requirement for African literature, both within Africa and on the worldwide stage. Through captivating works of fiction, poetry, and non-fiction, African authors are reclaiming their narratives, challenging prevailing stereotypes, and showcasing the multifaceted realities within their continent. These literary voices are unlocking the hidden treasures of African literature, shedding light on untold stories and bringing each of these to the forefront of global consciousness.
Where we delve deeper into the concept of African storytelling, we began to unravel the intricacies of a narrative tradition contains stood the assessment of time. The tales that emerge using this cultural tapestry aren't merely entertainment; they're windows inside hearts and minds of a diverse continent. They carry the load of history, the expanse of imagination, and the power to shape narratives daily to come.
At the main of African storytelling lies feeling of community and connection, a recognition where the stories we share can be a testament to our shared experiences and collective memory. Round the vast African continent, tales of courage, love, and resilience are passed on for some other generation to a different, each narrative etching itself directly into the tapestry of African culture.
Within the vibrant rhythms of African storytelling, one you'll find a deep appreciation with respect to richness of oral traditions. These traditions not only serves to function a means of preserving history but also as vehicle for sparking dialogue and fostering understanding. With the 2nd considerably less this chapter, we relish the power of storytelling in fostering empathy and dismantling stereotypes within African society.
Because the tales unfold, they provide glimpses into diverse African cultures, revealing the complexities and nuances which put each community distinct. Far away from nomadic tribes in spite of what the Sahara along with the bustling cities of West Africa, stories transcend geographical boundaries, allowing us to review the diverse landscapes and varied perspectives which exist throughout the continent.
Through storytelling, African literature challenges the homogenizing narratives that have often characterized Africa. Instead of presenting a monolithic view, it celebrates the many voices and experiences that render Africa a mosaic of cultures and traditions. By embracing these narratives, African authors are reclaiming their identities and rewriting the narrative and health of their continent onto their terms.
One cannot delve into African storytelling without acknowledging the central role of ladies in preserving and shaping these narratives. Off of the strong-willed griottes of Mali other than powerful mkizis of East Africa, African women happen to the unsung heroes of storytelling, weaving intricate tales that commemorate the resilience and wisdom for their communities. This recognition of female storytellers apart from been extremely ultra slim brings balance far better narrative landscape but in addition highlights the role of women in African society as custodians of data and tradition.
In recent decades, African literature has experienced a renaissance, with numerous African authors gaining international recognition and acclaim. These voices to give fresh perspective on African experiences, have a failure stereotypes, and challenge dominant narratives. Through their works, they confront issues equivalent to political unrest, social injustice, and gender inequality, shedding light found on the complexities for all your serious African experience and igniting conversations that resonate far outside the continent's borders.
As we currently are review the second 50 % this chapter, we unravel the threads that connect African storytelling to its contemporary manifestations. Faraway from oral traditions despite griots significantly better written word of modern African authors, storytelling is continuing to evolve and adapt while remaining rooted in a very very fundamental purpose: offer our stories and connect us significantly better broader human experience.
Afterwards, the power of storytelling in African culture is undeniable. It's across the spoken and written word that Africa's diverse narratives find their voice, bridging the gaps between generations and cultures. These stories, from their universal themes and unique perspectives, may perhaps to inspire, educate, and unite a global audience. Once we journey deeper up in the treasures of African literature, we furthermore unlock the untold stories of a continent but additionally embrace the wealth of human experiences that render a lot of people part of a greater tapestry of existence. So join us just as we embark the voyage, discovering the riches that lie inside the stories of Africa, and notice the power of storytelling firsthand.
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Chapter 3: African Mythology: Gods, Spirits, and Legends
Delve towards the captivating realm of African mythology and learn to master fascinating tales of gods, spirits, and legendary creatures. With a costly and diverse cultural heritage, Africa stands such as a treasure trove of captivating stories which were captured through generations. These myths reflect the beliefs, values, and traditions despite African people, offering a glimpse into their profound spiritual connections considering the forces that shape their lives.
One cannot explore African mythology without encountering the mighty deities that hold immense power over the natural world. Aloof from vast savannahs offered depths irrespective of oceans, gods resembling Olorun, Amun-Ra, and Ngai command the forces of nature, bestowing blessings and enacting punishments due to the reason that see fit. Should it be the thunderous storm summoned by Shango, the Yoruba god of thunder and lightning, and the gentle rains that this Zulu deity Nomkhubulwane provides you with nurture your workplace, these gods embody the awe-inspiring forces of nature that Africans have revered for centuries.
Far better gods, African mythology is replete with spirits that roam the Earth, interacting with humans and influencing daily life. Anansi, the West African spider spirit, is better known for his cunning and trickery, weaving webs of stories that entertain and impart important lessons. The Mami Wata, a water spirit found scores of African cultures, represents both beauty and danger, luring unsuspecting those with her irresistible charm. These spirits embody the colourful tapestry of African folklore, adding intrigue and enchantment provided mythical narratives.
The realm of African mythology also encompasses a massive amount legendary creatures that captivate the imagination. Farther from fearsome Mngwa, a big cat-like creature regarded by stalk the forests of Tanzania, along with the mischievous Tokoloshe, a creature that delights in causing mischief and hassle, these mythical beings provide a glimpse for the African belief in the coexistence in spite of what the physical and spiritual worlds. In several myths, creatures like the Asanbosam, a vampire-like creature with iron-hooked feet present in Ghanaian legends, serve as cautionary tales to instill fear and discourage bad behavior.
Beyond their mythical nature, these stories hold immense cultural significance in African societies. They function a technique of passing down traditions, beliefs, and moral teachings from a particular place generation as well as the next. To the oral tradition, griots and storytellers have preserved these tales, ensuring that the precious knowledge kept within them remains alive in the hearts and minds of Africans across the continent.
We simply journey deeper straight into the realm of African mythology, we'll encounter a number of captivating narratives that weave together the material of African cultures. Apart from creation stories that specify the origins of life on top of tales of epic battles between gods and mortals, each story offers a singular understanding of the varied perspectives that comprise the African continent.
In the second fifty percent of this chapter, we are going to delve into specific African myths, exploring the importance of these stories onto their respective cultures. We'll uncover the origins of the ancient Egyptian god Osiris add the powerful Yoruba trickster deity Eshu. We may even embark through the entire journey into the space of the Dogon people, from where the mythical Nommo beings guarantee to obtain played a pivotal part in the finding of humanity.
Be ready to be enchanted most of us unravel these stories full of drama, symbolism, and profound wisdom. African mythology invites us to embrace the power of imagination, to question our position the cosmos, and to realize a deeper appreciation for the beauty and complexity of our experience. Join us when we unlock the riches of African literature and embark at the dealings with the untold stories which have shaped the lives of millions throughout history.Organize be captivated that most of us continue our exploration of African mythology, delving deeper directly into the rich tapestry of gods, spirits, and legendary creatures that outline this enchanting realm. These tales currently genetically inherited through generations, carrying with thier site the beliefs, values, and traditions notwithstanding African people, because it is through them therefore we truly commenced to comprehend profound spiritual connections and forces that shape their lives.
That we both embark for that second a new our journey, we encounter the traditional Egyptian god Osiris, a central figure in Egyptian mythology. Osiris, the god no matter what afterlife, resurrection, and fertility, plays a pivotal stock in the complex cosmology of Egyptian belief. His story embodies the cyclical nature of life and death, and additionally eternal struggle between order and chaos. Through his death and resurrection, Osiris could be described as the hope of rebirth and renewal, offering solace and reassurance to the traditional Egyptians as faced the uncertainties with only their work on it existence.
Moving inside of the continent, we come nose to nose using mischievous and unpredictable Yoruba trickster deity Eshu. Eshu embodies the complex nature of human morality, often blurring the lines between good and evil. Common and a messenger by using gods and humans, Eshu's actions may be both benevolent and malevolent, challenging individuals to navigate the balance between right and wrong. His presence in Yoruba mythology provides a reminder of the advantages of creating wise choices and gaining knowledge through our mistakes.
Our journey then takes us in addition to captivating incidence the Dogon people, the location where the mythical Nommo beings hold great significance. Based on Dogon mythology, the Nommo are extraterrestrial beings that descended to Earth to can help in the creation of humanity. These amphibious creatures are revered as the masters of water and symbols of fertility. The Nommo bring in theor company a way mystery and wonder, inviting us to contemplate the origins our own own existence and our place inside the vast cosmos.
It is within these myths, and countless others, we simply track answer to African cultures add the wisdom they impart. These vivid narratives serve as a technique of passing down traditions, beliefs, and moral teachings to another cell generation to a higher, ensuring that the valuable knowledge published in them remains alive within the hearts and minds of Africans round the continent.
That most of us immerse inside us the varied perspectives used in African mythology, we build deeper appreciation for the wonder and complexity of our own experience. The tales of epic battles between gods and mortals, the creation stories that specify the origins of life, from the symbolic characters that embody virtues and vices all guide the richness of this approach extraordinary literary heritage.
Allow us to be enthralled once again coming from the drama, symbolism, and profound wisdom of African mythology. These untold stories have shaped the lives of millions throughout history go away with to resonate with us today. To the power of imagination, they invite us to question our residence creation and embrace the endless possibilities that lie before us.
Join us as we currently are further unlock the riches of African literature, the following a journey that celebrates the cultural diversity and heritage about this magnificent continent. Together, let us cherish these stories a testament beyond the resilience, creativity, and extraordinary spirit no importance African people.
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Chapter 4: Folktales and Moral Lessons
Go to the enchantment of African folktales and unravel the profound moral lessons embedded within these timeless stories. These captivating narratives tend to be connected through generations, serving you might be playing treasure trove of wisdom and entertainment in African cultures. Folktales apart from been extremely ultra slim entertain but additionally educate and enlighten, conveying valuable life lessons that have stood the test of time.
Africa this is usually a continent considering diverse cultures, each with its varying number of folktales and oral traditions. These stories are rooted within the scope beliefs of the varied ethnic groups, serving currently being a technique of passing down cultural heritage and values. Farther away from vast plains of East Africa to the colourful markets of West Africa, folktales could have been an important part of African societies for centuries.
One of the remarkable aspects of African folktales can be the permission to transcend time to geography. These stories have traveled across borders and reached far-flung corners people, captivating audiences beyond Africa. They've a universal appeal, touching the hearts and minds of individuals fellow backgrounds.
In the hub of African folktales lie their moral lessons, which are sometimes delivered through anthropomorphized animals and magical creatures. These stories function an illustration reflecting upon our condition, addressing various aspects of life such as love, bravery, greed, and forgiveness. The characters at the time of tales, whether human or animal, grapple with challenges and dilemmas that resonate with readers of all ages.
Take, for example, the well-known West African folktale "The Tortoise add the Birds." On this story, the crafty tortoise deceives the birds into sharing the type of food you bought for them with him by pretending it does not have to be their friend. However, the birds soon discover his true intentions and meet to thwart his devious plans. This tale teaches us advantageous of discernment and wisdom. It reminds us to see to it and not to trust blindly, for appearances may be deceiving.
Another renowned folktale, "Why the Sky is Far Away," comes from the Igbo people of Nigeria. It tells the story plot of how it is that the sky was near organizations, but due to humans' greed and disrespect for nature, it moved farther away. This cautionary tale works as a reminder no matter what the interdependence between humans and nature, urging us to cherish and preserve the environment.
The beauty of African folktales lies in their skill to seamlessly weave moral lessons into captivating narratives. Through engaging storytelling techniques, these tales be certain readers' attention while subtly instilling values and principles. The characters become vessels for your own personal lessons, allowing readers to unite with their struggles and victories, ultimately imbibing the sanctity whatever the message.
Moreover, African folktales often integrate the oral tradition of call-and-response, engaging the audience and creating a feeling of community. These stories are supposed to be shared, sparking conversations around societal norms and values. They encourage dialogue and significant thinking, inviting readers to mirror upon their very own lives and actions.
In a world crammed with constant distractions and fast-paced living, the enchanting arena of African folktales also has an oasis of tranquility and wisdom. They offer a really-needed escape from reality, allowing readers to immerse themselves in a huge magic and fantasy. These tales captivate the imagination, transporting us to distant lands and ancient times.
As we venture further toward depths of African literature, allow us to embrace the enchantment of folktales and uncover out hidden gems of wisdom they hold. In the second with less frequency this chapter, we'll delve into specific folktales from several regions of Africa, exploring their individual narratives plus the moral lessons they bring forth. Make ready embark linked with journey of discovery and enlightenment that we both unlock the riches of African literature and unravel the untold stories that lie within.
Distinctively now, allow us to pause, leaving the chapter found on the precipice of another captivating tale, awaiting the turn when you are facing a serious page where new adventures and profound insights await.In the second not as this chapter, we continue our exploration of African folktales, diving deeper to rich tapestry of narratives and moral lessons that lie within. Join me just as we journey through different regions of Africa and uncover the hidden gems of wisdom they hold.
In East Africa, we encounter the captivating tale of "The Hare having the Elephant," a folktale loved among the Maasai people. This story chronicles the hare's adventures during the time outsmarts the mighty elephant through wit and cunning. It highlights the ability of intelligence and quick thinking, showing us that maybe the smallest can conquer the mightiest when armed with cleverness and resourcefulness.
Traveling to Central Africa, we come across the heartwarming story of "The Greedy Antelope considering the Kind Elephant" far away from Bemba people of Zambia. On this tale, the antelope's insatiable greed leads to her downfall, when kind-hearted elephant is rewarded due to their generosity. It provides for a reminder that greed only results in unhappiness, whereas acts of compassion and selflessness bring joy and fulfillment.
Moving towards West Africa, we are introduced other than enchanting folktale of "Anansi the Spider" from the Ashanti culture in Ghana. Anansi, a creative and mischievous spider, weaves intricate webs of trickery and cunning to outwit his adversaries. These tales teach us valuable lessons about wisdom, cleverness, and the advantage of applying one's intelligence for the greater good.
In Southern Africa, the San people share their ancient wisdom the folktale of "The Moon with the Hare." This story explains why the moon is about to have a hare living on its surface, having been a result of hare's bravery and self-sacrifice. It imparts the lesson of valor and bravery, reminding us that courage is available in many forms knowing that the that old smallest acts could make a major impact.
Nearly all of folktales from multiple regions of Africa provides a unique lens during which we are able to understand and treasure continent's diverse cultures and heritage. They provide profound insights into normal, societal values, and our relationship with the natural world.
Beyond their moral lessons, African folktales enchant us for their vivid imagery and captivating storytelling techniques. We're transported to distant lands where animals speak, forests stand out, and magic takes center stage. The oral tradition of call-and-response procedes to weave its magic, engaging readers inside a shared experience and fostering a sense togetherness and connection.
As we currently are immerse inside ourselves the enchanting life of African folktales, we're reminded of the ability of storytelling as vehicles for preserving cultural heritage and passing down wisdom to a different generation to the next. These timeless stories have stood the assessment for longer intervals, captivating audiences far apart from borders of Africa.
Of their simplicity lies their universality, transcending language and cultural barriers. They teach us that irrespective of our background, all of us grapple with similar challenges and dilemmas in life. Through these folktales, we discover common ground and discover valuable lessons that resonate with the own experiences.
So, dear book enthusiasts, allow us to embrace the enchantment of African folktales and uncover the profound wisdom they offer. Let us listen, learn, and reflect upon the timeless stories that have shaped communities and instilled moral values for centuries.
Just as we conclude this chapter, leaving you close of discovery and enlightenment, let these folktales linger at heart, inspiring conversations and sparking newfound curiosity. May they function a reminder that our treasures of African literature await, ready to be unlocked and shared with the world.
Understand for the following chapter, where we'll embark on a new literary adventure, delving straight into the works of African authors and exploring the richness of their own storytelling. Particularly now, concede magic of African folktales fill your hearts and minds, inviting that enable you to explore the untold stories that lie within.
Remember, the ability of these tales lies not just in their enchantment but in addition in their there are shape our own narratives and understanding no importance world. Open your minds in addition to wonders of African literature, make it possible the riches within unfold.
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Chapter 5: Exploration of African Oral Literature
Enter the concept of African oral literature that we all examine the historical significance and enduring impact of oral storytelling traditions. Across the vast African continent, storytelling has additionally been an intrinsic involving the cultural fabric for centuries. Grasped from one generation to another throughout oral tradition, these narratives have not only entertained, but also were a unique form of education, transmission of cultural values, and preservation of history.
As a way to fully benefit richness of African oral literature, it is essential to to know about historical context in which these traditions developed. For countless generations, prior the arrival of written types of communication, African societies relied upon oral storytelling as a way o
