Chapter 1: Start in African Literature
Evaluate rich and diverse landscape of African literature, from its roots in oral storytelling traditions to its modern evolution. The space of African literature this usually is a treasure trove of captivating narratives, vibrant storytelling, and compelling voices waiting to be discovered. As book enthusiasts, we invite in line with your interests a journey to unlock the riches of African literature and delve back into the untold stories which have shaped the continent's literary heritage.
African literature it can be a testament to the power of words, basically as deeply intertwined with this oral traditions that have been learned through generations. Long before the written word was prominent, African communities relied on the oral transmission of stories, myths, and legends to convey their history, beliefs, and values. Griots, the traditional storytellers, held an esteemed role throughout the community, serving as the custodians of oral literature and preserving the collective memory when using the people.
This rich tradition of oral storytelling laid the inspiration for the varied tapestry of African literature we now have today. Aloof from epic tales of Sundiata Keita in West Africa as well as the oral poetry swapped Zulu people in South Africa, these stories were woven within the very fabric of African society. They celebrated bravery, love, wisdom, and moral lessons, serving of course as entertainment but additionally as educational tools, guiding individuals located on path to self-discovery.
With the appearance of writing systems plus the colonization of Africa, a new chapter in African literature emerged. African writers, both found on the continent plus the diaspora, began using written word as a means to challenge dominant narratives, voice their experiences, and reclaim their cultural heritage. This literary renaissance ushered in notable narratives that offered unique perspectives on African history, identity, while using struggles faced by its people.
In the mid-20s, the waves of African independence movements further fueled the expansion of African literature. Writers similar to Chinua Achebe, Wole Soyinka, and Ngugi wa Thiong'o emerged as literary giants, from different a great time to explore post-colonial themes, social injustice, with complexities of cultural identity. Their novels, plays, and poetry played a vital role in shaping the African literary canon and capturing the spirit the foremost continent in transition.
Today, African literature goes on to evolve, embracing a a 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, etcetera, are amplifying diverse voices and shedding light on the intricate layers of African experiences.
The facility of African literature is present in its skill to connect readers with a civilization steeped in history, culture, and human experiences which will has become previously unfamiliar. Through vibrant prose, vivid descriptions, and engaging narratives, African authors offer readers a window straight into the complexities of African societies, providing insights and fostering empathy across geographical and cultural divides.
As book enthusiasts, we are lucky to embark using this literary exploration together, uncovering the wonders of African literature and immersing inside ourselves the untold stories browsing for be discovered. Join us as we currently are delve deeper up into the next thing chapter, where we are going to take you on a journey through the different genres and key authors that have shaped African literature. Prepare to be captivated, enlightened, and inspired by their richness of African storytelling.
<*End it does not matter chapter*African literature, with its tallent to transport readers to distant lands, ignite the imagination, and challenge preconceived notions, has captivated book enthusiasts across the world. Firstly 50 % 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 powerful written form. Now, as we currently are delve deeper into the additional half, we are going to uncover the vibrant genres and influential authors which have shaped the African literary landscape.
One of the vital prominent genres in African literature that old novel. Farther away from early works of Chinua Achebe aside from contemporary writings of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, African novelists have deftly captured the complexities of African society is actually ongoing struggles. Their stories navigate themes of identity, power dynamics, colonialism, while using 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 in spite of what the protagonist, Okonkwo, and showcasing the rich cultural heritage no matter what the Igbo people, Achebe shattered stereotypes and provided a platform for African voices to be heard globally.
As African literature evolved, so did the exploration of other genres, equivalent to poetry and drama. Poets like Leopold Sedar Senghor and Christopher Okigbo captured the solution for African beauty, spirituality, and struggles through their lyrical verses. Senghor's very thought of "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 utilizing King's Horseman" delves on to the clash between African traditional beliefs and British colonial rule in Nigeria. Soyinka's works much more than entertained but additionally held a graphic to society, highlighting social and political issues while preserving African cultural heritage.
Another genre that earned prominence lately is African speculative fiction. Authors like Nnedi Okorafor and Tade Thompson have embraced the realm whatever the fantastical to address contemporary African issues and reimagine African narratives. Through tasks related to fictional, fantasy, and magical realism, they challenge traditional boundaries and envision alternate futures for your continent.
African women writers, too, applied an indelible mark on the literary landscape. Farther from empowering prose of Buchi Emecheta provided 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 in which in the case of some to inform their untold stories.
Beyond novels, poetry, drama, and speculative fiction, African literature encompasses an unlimited large selection of genres and forms, including short stories, memoirs, and essays. The variety and multiplicity of voices within African literature reflect the rich tapestry no importance continent itself.
As book enthusiasts, we experience the privilege of immersing inside us these literary treasures and embracing the complexities of African storytelling. Each page presents tips to challenge our perspectives, foster empathy, and deepen our understanding on the planet 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 despite page, we'll 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 seeking be unlocked.
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Chapter 2: The Power of Storytelling in African Culture
Really continent as diverse and vibrant as Africa, storytelling occupies a central role in its rich tapestry of traditions and customs. Forwarded from during recent times, stories in African culture are usually not mere entertainment yet a robust tool that connects people, preserves history, and imparts wisdom. The skill of storytelling weaves a posh web of narratives that collectively due to backbone of African literature.
At the center of related website lies the oral tradition, a novel ways of communication carries withstood the assessment of time. Unlike written literature, which serves as a vital medium in many cultures, African storytelling places emphasis situated on the spoken word. This oral tradition is deeply embedded inside the roots of African society, serving being a technique of preserving heritage and passing down knowledge to a different generation to another.
Storytelling in African culture isn't confined to specific spaces or occasions but permeates many roads of life. From sacred rituals to everyday conversations, stories are interwoven into the fabric of African society. The village elders become the custodians of those tales, entrusted aided by the responsibility of preserving the collective memory and health of their communities. Through their narratives, they educate, inspire, and connect the brand new generations as a concequence of their roots.
Perhaps the thing that makes African storytelling truly exceptional is its skill to transcend timing and place. Oral narratives will not be static entities instead it uses living and breathing stories that transform the changing needs and context of their own audience. A story may evolve so as retold, reflecting the influences of various cultures and experiences. This dynamic nature adapt the continued relevance of African narratives, ensuring their resonance in contemporary times.
The significance of storytelling in African culture lies not simply in its role to be the resource of entertainment but additionally as a powerful conduit for cultural preservation. Stories function a bridge along with past, present, and future, allowing communities to take care of a feeling 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 traditional storyteller, often called griot or jali, holds a revered position within African communities. They possess an encyclopedic proficiency history, folklore, and mythology, and serve as the keepers notwithstanding oral tradition. Using their rhythmic voices and captivating gestures, the griots mesmerize their audiences, transporting them to be able to a society stuffed with 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 continued to grow far beyond spoken words. With the advent of written literature, African authors have embraced the written word being a kind medium to amplify their voices and share their stories using the world. Influenced via the rich heritage of oral storytelling, African literature draws upon the power of narratives to illuminate the varied experiences and struggles whatever the continent.
Lately, there has been a resurgence of popularity of 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 of the continent. These literary voices are unlocking the hidden treasures of African literature, shedding light on untold stories and bringing each of them to the forefront of world consciousness.
In moments when we delve deeper into the joy of African storytelling, we proceeded to unravel the intricacies of a story tradition getting stood the assessment of time. The tales that emerge by way of cultural tapestry should not merely entertainment; they are windows on the hearts and minds of a various continent. They carry the load of history, the expanse of imagination, and the power to shape narratives for a long time to come.
At the root of African storytelling lies feeling of community and connection, a recognition the fact stories we share certainly are a testament to our shared experiences and collective memory. Within your vast African continent, tales of courage, love, and resilience are passed on from a particular generation to a different, each narrative etching itself into the tapestry of African culture.
Within the vibrant rhythms of African storytelling, one practical a deep appreciation for sharing such richness of oral traditions. These traditions aside from that function a technique of preserving history but additionally as automobile for sparking dialogue and fostering understanding. In the second with less frequency this chapter, we try to find the power of storytelling in fostering empathy and dismantling stereotypes within African society.
Because the tales unfold, they offer glimpses into diverse African cultures, revealing the complexities and nuances which put each community distinct. Away from nomadic tribes regardless of what the Sahara offered bustling cities of West Africa, stories transcend geographical boundaries, allowing us to evaluate diverse landscapes and varied perspectives which exist inside the continent.
Through storytelling, African literature challenges the homogenizing narratives that have often characterized Africa. Rather than presenting a monolithic view, it celebrates the multitude of voices and experiences which put Africa a mosaic of cultures and traditions. By embracing these narratives, African authors are reclaiming their identities and rewriting the narrative of your continent on terms.
One cannot delve into African storytelling without acknowledging the central role of ladies in preserving and shaping these narratives. Out from strong-willed griottes of Mali other than powerful mkizis of East Africa, African women was the unsung heroes of storytelling, weaving intricate tales that celebrate the resilience and wisdom of their own communities. This recognition of female storytellers not only brings balance significantly better narrative landscape but additionally highlights the role of girls in African society as custodians of data and tradition.
In the past few decades, African literature has experienced a renaissance, with a large number of African authors gaining international recognition and acclaim. These voices with regard to the fresh perspective on African experiences, stop working stereotypes, and challenge dominant narratives. Through their works, they confront issues comparable to political unrest, social injustice, and gender inequality, shedding light found on the complexities no matter the African experience and igniting conversations that resonate far visits continent's borders.
That we delight in the second far less this chapter, we unravel the threads that connect African storytelling to its contemporary manifestations. From the oral traditions when you are facing a serious griots on top of written word of modern African authors, storytelling procedes to evolve and adapt while remaining rooted inside of the fundamental purpose: offer our stories and connect us besides the broader human experience.
After all, the power of storytelling in African culture is undeniable. It is to the spoken and written word that Africa's diverse narratives find their voice, bridging the gaps between generations and cultures. These stories, on your universal themes and unique perspectives, may perhaps to inspire, educate, and unite a world audience. That we both journey deeper towards the treasures of African literature, we not limited to unlock the untold stories have to have continent but in addition embrace the wealth of human experiences which put almost everyone a part of a greater tapestry of existence. So join us where we embark that voyage, discovering the riches that lie inside the stories of Africa, and observe the power of storytelling firsthand.
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Chapter 3: African Mythology: Gods, Spirits, and Legends
Delve inside captivating realm of African mythology and learn the fascinating tales of gods, spirits, and legendary creatures. With a rich and diverse cultural heritage, Africa stands just like a treasure trove of captivating stories that have been passed down through generations. These myths reflect the beliefs, values, and traditions in spite of what the African people, offering a glimpse into their profound spiritual connections from the forces that shape their lives.
One cannot explore African mythology without encountering the mighty deities that hold immense power over the natural world. Removed from vast savannahs in addition to depths when you are facing a serious oceans, gods comparable to Olorun, Amun-Ra, and Ngai command the forces of nature, bestowing blessings and enacting punishments on account that see fit. Whether it was the thunderous storm summoned by Shango, the Yoruba god of thunder and lightning, or on the gentle rains that Zulu deity Nomkhubulwane adds to nurture events, these gods embody the awe-inspiring forces of nature that Africans have revered for centuries.
Besides the 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 known for his cunning and trickery, weaving webs of stories that entertain and impart important lessons. The Mami Wata, a water spirit found abundant African cultures, represents both beauty and danger, luring unsuspecting individuals having her irresistible charm. These spirits embody the colourful tapestry of African folklore, adding intrigue and enchantment besides the mythical narratives.
The realm of African mythology also encompasses a array legendary creatures that captivate the imagination. Leaving your fearsome Mngwa, a big cat-like creature said to stalk the forests of Tanzania, offered mischievous Tokoloshe, a creature that delights in causing mischief and hassle, these mythical beings provides you with glimpse into your African belief in the coexistence no matter physical and spiritual worlds. In various myths, creatures just 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 means of passing down traditions, beliefs, and moral teachings from one generation along with the next. In the oral tradition, griots and storytellers have preserved these tales, going through the valuable knowledge located in them remains alive within the hearts and minds of Africans across the continent.
Just as we journey deeper directly into the realm of African mythology, we are going to encounter an array of captivating narratives that weave together the fabric of African cultures. Further from creation stories that designate the origins of life offered tales of epic battles between gods and mortals, each story offers a unique understanding of the various perspectives that comprise the African continent.
With the 2nd 50 % this chapter, we are going to delve into specific African myths, exploring the importance of these stories into their respective cultures. We will uncover the origins of the ancient Egyptian god Osiris having the powerful Yoruba trickster deity Eshu. We will also embark going on a journey into the notion of the Dogon people, your mythical Nommo beings warrant having played a pivotal role in the creation of humanity.
Formulate be enchanted as we did unravel these stories filled with drama, symbolism, and profound wisdom. African mythology invites us to embrace the power of imagination, to question our place arrival, and to gain a deeper appreciation for the wonder and complexity of many of our experience. Join us most of us unlock the riches of African literature and embark linked to journey through the untold stories that have shaped the lives of millions throughout history.Prepare be captivated we simply continue our exploration of African mythology, delving deeper along the rich tapestry of gods, spirits, and legendary creatures that define this enchanting realm. These tales have already been transferred through generations, carrying with those sebsites the beliefs, values, and traditions swapped African people, and this is thru them that individuals truly set about to to understand about profound spiritual connections and forces that shape their lives.
Most of us embark this powerful second let alone our journey, we encounter the traditional Egyptian god Osiris, a central figure in Egyptian mythology. Osiris, the god when you are facing a serious afterlife, resurrection, and fertility, plays a pivotal role in the complex cosmology of Egyptian belief. His story embodies the cyclical nature of life and death, plus eternal struggle between order and chaos. Through his death and resurrection, Osiris represents the hope of rebirth and renewal, offering solace and reassurance to the traditional Egyptians as they faced the uncertainties with only their work on it existence.
Moving the particular world continent, we come head to head when using the mischievous and unpredictable Yoruba trickster deity Eshu. Eshu embodies the complex nature of human morality, often blurring the lines between good and evil. Often used a messenger separating the gods and humans, Eshu's actions might be both benevolent and malevolent, challenging individuals to navigate the balance between right and wrong. His presence in Yoruba mythology provides for a reminder of the advantages of making wise choices and learning from our mistakes.
Our journey then takes us to the captivating realm of the Dogon people, the location where the mythical Nommo beings hold great significance. In accordance with Dogon mythology, the Nommo are aliens that descended to Earth to can help in the formulation of humanity. These amphibious creatures are revered because the masters of water and symbols of fertility. The Nommo bring with him a sense mystery and wonder, inviting us to contemplate the origins in your own existence and our place inside the vast cosmos.
It is contained in these myths, and countless others, a great deal of us wedding reception major African cultures and of course the wisdom they impart. These vivid narratives serve as a means of passing down traditions, beliefs, and moral teachings onto the next generation to the next, suffering the precious knowledge found in them remains alive within the hearts and minds of Africans the particular continent.
When we immerse our society the various perspectives featured in African mythology, we have a good deeper appreciation for the sweetness and complexity of that old experience. The tales of epic battles between gods and mortals, the creation stories that designate the origins of life, aided by the symbolic characters that embody virtues and vices all help add to the richness about this extraordinary literary heritage.
Let us be enthralled once more from the drama, symbolism, and profound wisdom of African mythology. These untold stories have shaped the lives of millions throughout history as well as maintaing your target weight to resonate with us today. Throughout power of imagination, they invite us to impeach our house arrival and embrace the endless possibilities that lie before us.
Join us that we both further unlock the riches of African literature, the following a journey that celebrates the cultural diversity and heritage of the magnificent continent. Together, allow us to cherish these stories such as a testament alongside the resilience, creativity, and extraordinary spirit of the African people.
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Chapter 4: Folktales and Moral Lessons
Visit the enchantment of African folktales and unravel the profound moral lessons embedded within these timeless stories. These captivating narratives were already grasped through generations, serving as a general treasure trove of wisdom and entertainment in African cultures. Folktales do not limit our service to just entertain but also educate and enlighten, conveying valuable life lessons which have stood the assessment of time.
Africa it may be continent by means of diverse cultures, each with its exact several folktales and oral traditions. These stories are rooted in the track record beliefs of the varied ethnic groups, serving for being means of passing down cultural heritage and values. Farther from vast plains of East Africa to the colourful markets of West Africa, folktales has become an integral part of African societies for centuries.
One of many remarkable aspects of African folktales which is the the hungry transcend effort and geography. These stories have traveled across borders and reached far-flung corners world wide, captivating audiences beyond Africa. They've a universal appeal, touching the hearts and minds of individuals from different backgrounds.
In the middle of African folktales lie their moral lessons, which are sometimes delivered through anthropomorphized animals and magical creatures. These stories serve as a replica reflecting upon an individual's condition, addressing various aspects of life equivalent to love, bravery, greed, and forgiveness. The characters over these tales, whether human or animal, grapple with challenges and dilemmas that resonate with recipients of all ages.
Take, for example, the well-known West African folktale "The Tortoise when using the Birds." In this story, the crafty tortoise deceives the birds into sharing their food with him by pretending it really does not have to be their friend. However, the birds soon discover his true intentions and compile to thwart his devious plans. This tale teaches us the biggest plus of discernment and wisdom. It reminds us to check and never to trust blindly, for appearances could be deceiving.
Another renowned folktale, "Why the Sky is Far Away," happens the Igbo people of Nigeria. It tells how it is of how the sky used to be near shindigs, but as a consequence of humans' greed and disrespect for nature, it moved farther away. This cautionary tale works like a reminder no matter interdependence between humans and nature, urging us to cherish and preserve the environment.
The fantastic thing about African folktales lies of their to be the 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 find out the lessons, allowing readers to getting in touch their struggles and victories, ultimately imbibing the sanctity irregardless of message.
Moreover, African folktales often integrate the oral tradition of call-and-response, engaging the audience and creating a feel 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 own lives and actions.
On a planet stuffed with constant distractions and fast-paced living, the enchanting prevalence African folktales also has an oasis of tranquility and wisdom. They provide a simple-needed escape from reality, allowing readers to immerse themselves in an enormous magic and fantasy. These tales captivate the imagination, transporting us to distant lands and ancient times.
As we currently are venture further within the depths of African literature, let us embrace the enchantment of folktales and recognize hidden gems of wisdom they hold. In the second let alone this chapter, we are going to delve into specific folktales fellow regions of Africa, exploring their unique narratives add the moral lessons they create forth. Hurry embark on a journey of discovery and enlightenment we simply unlock the riches of African literature and unravel the untold stories that lie within.
Apart from now, let us pause, leaving the chapter situated on the precipice of another captivating tale, awaiting the turn no matter what page where new adventures and profound insights await.In the second far less this chapter, we continue our exploration of African folktales, diving deeper toward rich tapestry of narratives and moral lessons that lie within. Join me that we dealings with different regions of Africa and uncover the hidden gems of wisdom they hold.
In East Africa, we encounter the captivating tale of "The Hare and of course the Elephant," a folktale loved among the Maasai people. This story chronicles the hare's adventures since he outsmarts the mighty elephant through wit and cunning. It highlights the facility of intelligence and quick thinking, showing us that even the smallest can overcome the mightiest when armed with cleverness and resourcefulness.
Vacationing in Central Africa, we encounter the heartwarming story of "The Greedy Antelope while using Kind Elephant" from the Bemba people of Zambia. On this tale, the antelope's insatiable greed results in her downfall, because the kind-hearted elephant is rewarded for generosity. It works like reminder that greed only leads to unhappiness, whereas acts of compassion and selflessness bring joy and fulfillment.
Moving towards West Africa, we're introduced in addition to enchanting folktale of "Anansi the Spider" out from Ashanti culture in Ghana. Anansi, a classic 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 greatest advantage here of hiring one's intelligence for the more consistently good.
In Southern Africa, the San people share their ancient wisdom within the folktale of "The Moon with Hare." This story explains why the moon is known for having a hare living on its surface, as a result of the hare's bravery and self-sacrifice. It imparts the lesson of valor and bravery, reminding us that courage is available in many forms so that that old smallest acts could make a significant impact.
Will experience folktales from several regions of Africa provides a unique lens during which we will understand and taste continent's diverse cultures and heritage. They offer profound insights into standard, societal values, and our relationship with the body's world.
Beyond their moral lessons, African folktales enchant us having their vivid imagery and captivating storytelling techniques. We're transported to distant lands where animals speak, forests twinkle, and magic takes center stage. The oral tradition of call-and-response procedes weave its magic, engaging readers inside a shared experience and fostering aire of togetherness and connection.
Just as we immerse inside us the enchanting an entire world of African folktales, we are reminded of the ability of storytelling as charter bus rental for preserving cultural heritage and passing down wisdom from one generation much better next. These timeless stories have stood the test for longer intervals, captivating audiences far away from the 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. From each of these folktales, we discover common ground explore valuable lessons that resonate using 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.
As we did conclude this chapter, leaving you on the edge of discovery and enlightenment, let these folktales linger inside, inspiring conversations and sparking newfound curiosity. May they serve as a reminder and see if the treasures of African literature await, able to be unlocked and shared from the world.
Comprehend for the next chapter, where we will embark on a new literary adventure, delving directly into works of African authors and exploring the richness from their storytelling. Clearly now, put your trust in magic of African folktales fill your hearts and minds, inviting you to try to find the untold stories that lie within.
Remember, the facility of those tales lies not simply in their enchantment but also of their skill to shape our own narratives and understanding no matter world. Open your minds far better wonders of African literature, and pushing the riches within unfold.
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Chapter 5: Exploration of African Oral Literature
Enter the idea of African oral literature like we examine the historical significance and enduring impact of oral storytelling traditions. Over the vast African continent, storytelling is an intrinsic involving the cultural fabric for centuries. Captured from with time using the oral tradition, these narratives have not only entertained, but also visited a unique form of education, transmission of cultural values, and preservation of history.
As a way to fully benefits richness of African oral literature, it is necessary to have knowledge about historical context during which these traditions developed. For countless generations, in advance of the arrival of written types of communication, African societies relied on oral storytelling as a method o
