Chapter 1: Start in African Literature
Benefit from the rich and diverse landscape of African literature, from its roots in oral storytelling traditions to its modern evolution. The joy of African literature that can easily be treasure trove of captivating narratives, vibrant storytelling, and compelling voices putting off be discovered. As book enthusiasts, we invite in line with your interests a journey to unlock the riches of African literature and delve throughout the untold stories that have shaped the continent's literary heritage.
African literature here's a testament to the ability of words, as it is deeply intertwined with the oral traditions that have been realized through generations. Well 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 standard storytellers, held an esteemed role within 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 foundation for the various tapestry of African literature we have now today. Farther away from epic tales of Sundiata Keita in West Africa provided oral poetry whatever the Zulu people in South Africa, these stories were woven straight into the very fabric of African society. They celebrated bravery, love, wisdom, and moral lessons, serving aside from that as entertainment but also as educational tools, guiding individuals relating to path to self-discovery.
With the advent of writing systems from the colonization of Africa, a brand new chapter in African literature emerged. African writers, both found on the continent also in the diaspora, began by applying the written word as a way 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, with struggles faced by its people.
Within the mid-twentieth, the waves of African independence movements further fueled the growth of African literature. Writers resembling Chinua Achebe, Wole Soyinka, and Ngugi wa Thiong'o emerged as literary giants, utilizing their chance to explore post-colonial themes, social injustice, with the complexities of cultural identity. Their novels, plays, and poetry played an important role in shaping the African literary canon and capturing the spirit of being a continent in transition.
Today, African literature continues to evolve, embracing a a multitude 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 many other, are amplifying diverse voices and shedding light situated on the intricate layers of African experiences.
The power of African literature is the reason its ability to connect readers with a realm steeped in history, culture, and human experiences that will are commonly previously unfamiliar. Through vibrant prose, vivid descriptions, and interesting narratives, African authors offer readers a window directly into complexities of African societies, providing insights and fostering empathy across geographical and cultural divides.
As book enthusiasts, we're fortunate to embark with this literary exploration together, uncovering the wonders of African literature and immersing inside ourselves the untold stories wanting to find be discovered. Join us because we delve deeper throughout the next option chapter, where we'll invest their time in you a dealings with different genres and key authors that have shaped African literature. Formulate be captivated, enlightened, and inspired from an richness of African storytelling.
<*End whatever the chapter*African literature, with its tallent to transport readers to distant lands, ignite the imagination, and challenge preconceived notions, has captivated book enthusiasts around the world. At the start fifty percent this chapter, we embarked on a dealings with the origins of African literature, from its roots in oral storytelling traditions to its transformation into a robust written form. Now, after we delve deeper into the moment half, we'll uncover the colourful genres and influential authors which have shaped the African literary landscape.
Probably the most prominent genres in African literature the bulging novel. Far from early works of Chinua Achebe offered contemporary writings of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, African novelists have deftly captured the complexities of African society and its particular 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 no importance protagonist, Okonkwo, and showcasing the rich cultural heritage it does not matter Igbo people, Achebe shattered stereotypes and provided a platform for African voices to be heard globally.
As African literature evolved, so practiced the exploration of other genres, comparable to poetry and drama. Poets like Leopold Sedar Senghor and Christopher Okigbo captured the essence African beauty, spirituality, and struggles through their lyrical verses. Senghor's concept of "Negritude" celebrated the African cultural identity, challenging the Eurocentric perspective prevalent during his time.
When you're talking of drama, Wole Soyinka, Africa's first Nobel Laureate in Literature, played an instrumental role. His play "Death utilizing King's Horseman" delves directly into clash between African traditional beliefs and British colonial rule in Nigeria. Soyinka's works in addition entertained but in addition held a copy to society, highlighting social and political issues while preserving African cultural heritage.
Another genre that introduced prominence in recent years is African speculative fiction. Authors like Nnedi Okorafor and Tade Thompson have embraced the realm whatever the fantastical to deal with contemporary African issues and reimagine African narratives. Through sections of science fiction, fantasy, and magical realism, they challenge traditional boundaries and envision alternate futures for our continent.
African women writers, too, have made an indelible mark on the literary landscape. Faraway from empowering prose of Buchi Emecheta alongside the 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 best way for others to inform their untold stories.
Beyond novels, poetry, drama, and speculative fiction, African literature encompasses an enormous wide variety of genres and copies, including short stories, memoirs, and essays. The range and multiplicity of voices within African literature reflect the rich tapestry whatever the continent itself.
As book enthusiasts, we acquire the privilege of immersing inside ourselves these literary treasures and embracing the complexities of African storytelling. Each page presents a good way to challenge our perspectives, foster empathy, and deepen our understanding of the world around us.
So, let us continue this exploration together, embracing the magic of African literature and relishing within the untold stories that await discovery. With each turn swapped 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, to make riches of African literature are browsing for be unlocked.
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Chapter 2: The Power of Storytelling in African Culture
In 1 continent as diverse and vibrant as Africa, storytelling occupies a central region its rich tapestry of traditions and customs. Connected from through the years, stories in African culture should not mere entertainment nevertheless a strong tool that connects people, preserves history, and imparts wisdom. The art of storytelling weaves a fancy web of narratives that collectively as a result of the backbone of African literature.
Focal of African storytelling lies the oral tradition, a novel solution communication who's withstood the test of time. Unlike written literature, which serves as a crucial medium in many cultures, African storytelling places emphasis found on the spoken word. This oral tradition is deeply embedded inside the roots of African society, serving currently being a means of preserving heritage and passing down knowledge onto a higher generation to another.
Storytelling in African culture shouldn't be just for specific spaces or occasions but permeates some ways 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 the responsibility of preserving the collective memory when using the communities. Through their narratives, they educate, inspire, and connect a new generations as a result of the roots.
Perhaps what is considered African storytelling truly exceptional is its power to transcend moment in time and place. Oral narratives are usually not static entities but nevertheless living and breathing stories that take note of the changing needs and context of your audience. A narrative may evolve as well as retold, reflecting the influences of various cultures and experiences. This dynamic nature facilitates the continued relevance of African narratives, ensuring their resonance in contemporary times.
The importance of storytelling in African culture lies not simply in its role to be source of entertainment but additionally as a robust conduit for cultural preservation. Stories function a bridge related to the past, present, and future, allowing communities to take care of 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 normal storyteller, referred to griot or jali, holds a revered position within African communities. They possess an encyclopedic perception of history, folklore, and mythology, and serve as the keepers whatever the oral tradition. With your rhythmic voices and captivating gestures, the griots mesmerize their audiences, transporting them into a civilization 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 grown far beyond spoken words. With the arrival of written literature, African authors have embraced the written word for being medium to amplify their voices and share their stories using the world. Influenced by that rich heritage of oral storytelling, African literature draws upon the facility of narratives to light up the various experiences and struggles whenever there is a serious continent.
Lately, there has been a resurgence of passion 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 of one's continent. These literary voices are unlocking the hidden treasures of African literature, shedding light on untold stories and bringing them to be able to the forefront of global consciousness.
In moments when we delve deeper into the space of African storytelling, we commence to unravel the intricacies of a narrative tradition containing stood the assessment of time. The tales that emerge by using cultural tapestry are usually not merely entertainment; they are windows to hearts and minds of a diverse continent. They carry the load of history, the expanse of imagination, and the ability to shape narratives in the past few years to come.
At the underlying cause of African storytelling lies aire of community and connection, a recognition that this stories we share undoubtedly are a testament to our shared experiences and collective memory. The actual vast African continent, tales of courage, love, and resilience are passed on from one generation to another, each narrative etching itself directly into the tapestry of African culture.
Within the colourful rhythms of African storytelling, one you can encounter a deep appreciation for your richness of oral traditions. These traditions not only function a technique of preserving history but in addition as vehicles for sparking dialogue and fostering understanding. With the 2nd considerably less this chapter, we take a look at 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. Apart from nomadic tribes regardless of Sahara in addition to bustling cities of West Africa, stories transcend geographical boundaries, allowing us to take pleasure in the diverse landscapes and varied perspectives which exist within the continent.
Through storytelling, African literature challenges the homogenizing narratives which have often characterized Africa. Other than presenting a monolithic view, it celebrates the many 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 within their continent independently terms.
One cannot delve into African storytelling without acknowledging the central role of girls in preserving and shaping these narratives. Farther from strong-willed griottes of Mali along with the powerful mkizis of East Africa, African women were actually the unsung heroes of storytelling, weaving intricate tales that commemorate the resilience and wisdom of their total communities. This recognition of female storytellers in turn brings balance along with the narrative landscape but additionally highlights the role of girls in African society as custodians of knowledge and tradition.
The past few decades, African literature has experienced a renaissance, with large number African authors gaining international recognition and acclaim. These voices for a fresh perspective on African experiences, digest 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 irregardless of African experience and igniting conversations that resonate far outside of the continent's borders.
That we both check out second a lot less this chapter, we unravel the threads that connect Read Even more to its contemporary manifestations. Caused from oral traditions it does not matter griots beyond the written word of recent African authors, storytelling is continuing to evolve and adapt while remaining rooted in its fundamental purpose: to tell the people they know our stories and connect us in addition to broader human experience.
In the end, the power of storytelling in African culture is undeniable. It is across the spoken and written word that Africa's diverse narratives find their voice, bridging the gaps between generations and cultures. These stories, regarding their universal themes and unique perspectives, are capable to inspire, educate, and unite a global audience. Once we journey deeper along the treasures of African literature, we aside from that unlock the untold stories have to have continent but additionally embrace the wealth of human experiences that make every body part of a greater tapestry of existence. So join us after we embark this special voyage, discovering the riches that lie inside the stories of Africa, and witness the power of storytelling firsthand.
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Chapter 3: African Mythology: Gods, Spirits, and Legends
Delve back into the captivating realm of African mythology and master the fascinating tales of gods, spirits, and legendary creatures. With a plentiful and diverse cultural heritage, Africa stands being treasure trove of captivating stories which have been captured through generations. These myths reflect the beliefs, values, and traditions of the African people, offering a glimpse into their profound spiritual connections together with the forces that shape their lives.
One cannot explore African mythology without encountering the mighty deities that hold immense power over the body's world. Further from vast savannahs as well as the depths no matter what oceans, gods equivalent to Olorun, Amun-Ra, and Ngai command the forces of nature, bestowing blessings and enacting punishments as they simply see fit. Whether it was the thunderous storm summoned by Shango, the Yoruba god of thunder and lightning, as well as the gentle rains of the Zulu deity Nomkhubulwane gives nurture get-togethers, these gods embody the awe-inspiring forces of nature that Africans have revered for centuries.
As well as 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 well known for his cunning and trickery, weaving webs of stories that entertain and impart important lessons. The Mami Wata, a water spirit found numerous African cultures, represents both beauty and danger, luring unsuspecting individuals that have her irresistible charm. These spirits embody the vibrant tapestry of African folklore, adding intrigue and enchantment on top of mythical narratives.
The realm of African mythology also encompasses a multitude of legendary creatures that captivate the imagination. Farther away from fearsome Mngwa, a big cat-like creature regarded as stalk the forests of Tanzania, offered mischievous Tokoloshe, a creature that delights in causing mischief and hassle, these mythical beings have got a glimpse with the African belief within the coexistence swapped physical and spiritual worlds. Using some 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 to another cell generation offered next. Using the oral tradition, griots and storytellers have preserved these tales, engaging in the valuable knowledge related to them remains alive within the hearts and minds of Africans above the continent.
That we both journey deeper directly into realm of African mythology, we will encounter quite a lot of captivating narratives that weave together the fabric of African cultures. Further from creation stories that explain the origins of life along with the tales of epic battles between gods and mortals, each story offers a unique advice about the varied perspectives that comprise the African continent.
In the second a third this chapter, we'll delve into specific African myths, exploring the significance of these stories for their respective cultures. We are going to uncover the origins of the traditional Egyptian god Osiris and to discover the powerful Yoruba trickster deity Eshu. We may even embark turn on a journey into the joy of the Dogon people, in order for the mythical Nommo beings be sure to accomplish played a pivotal shares in the formulation of humanity.
Set up be enchanted once we unravel these stories crammed with drama, symbolism, and profound wisdom. African mythology invites us to embrace the power of imagination, to question our place in arrival, and to realize a deeper appreciation for the sweetness and complexity of many of our experience. Join us after we unlock the riches of African literature and embark connected with dealings with the untold stories which have shaped the lives of millions throughout history.Formulate be captivated when we continue our exploration of African mythology, delving deeper back into the rich tapestry of gods, spirits, and legendary creatures that outline this enchanting realm. These tales have also been captured through generations, carrying from them the beliefs, values, and traditions no importance African people, it is thru them a great deal of us truly perked up and began to are aware of profound spiritual connections and forces that shape their lives.
After we embark on this second considerably less our journey, we encounter the ancient Egyptian god Osiris, a central figure in Egyptian mythology. Osiris, the god regardless of what the afterlife, resurrection, and fertility, plays a pivotal part in the complex cosmology of Egyptian belief. His story embodies the cyclical nature of life and death, this variety of eternal struggle between order and chaos. Through his death and resurrection, Osiris is known to be hope of rebirth and renewal, offering solace and reassurance to the traditional Egyptians given that faced the uncertainties with only their work on it existence.
Moving the continent, we come nose to nose due to the mischievous and unpredictable Yoruba trickster deity Eshu. Eshu embodies the complex nature of human morality, often blurring the lines between good and evil. Reputable a messenger involving the 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 works like a reminder of the importance of creating wise choices and gaining knowledge through our mistakes.
Our journey then takes us significantly better captivating playing field of the Dogon people, from where the mythical Nommo beings hold great significance. According to Dogon mythology, the Nommo are extraterrestrial beings that descended to Earth to can help in the finding of humanity. These amphibious creatures are revered as the masters of water and symbols of fertility. The Nommo bring around with them reality of mystery and wonder, inviting us to contemplate the origins of your own existence and our place throughout the vast cosmos.
It is at these myths, and countless others, that individuals ceremony major African cultures and after that occurs the wisdom they impart. These vivid narratives serve as a technique of passing down traditions, beliefs, and moral teachings for some other generation to another, employing the precious knowledge sold in them remains alive in the hearts and minds of Africans each of your continent.
That we all immerse ourselves in the varied perspectives when you have African mythology, we tend to have a deeper appreciation for the wonder and complexity of an individual's experience. The tales of epic battles between gods and mortals, the creation stories that designate the origins of life, while using the symbolic characters that embody virtues and vices all result in the richness these extraordinary literary heritage.
Let us be enthralled once more however by the drama, symbolism, and profound wisdom of African mythology. These untold stories have shaped the lives of millions throughout history and go out with to resonate with us today. From the power of imagination, they invite us to impeach our region occurrence and embrace the endless possibilities that lie before us.
Join us in moments when we further unlock the riches of African literature, commencing a journey that celebrates the cultural diversity and heritage of this specific magnificent continent. Together, let us cherish these stories for being testament provided resilience, creativity, and extraordinary spirit no matter what the African people.
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Chapter 4: Folktales and Moral Lessons
Discover the enchantment of African folktales and unravel the profound moral lessons embedded within these timeless stories. These captivating narratives were already linked through generations, serving as a treasure trove of wisdom and entertainment in African cultures. Folktales not limited to entertain but additionally educate and enlighten, conveying valuable life lessons which have stood the assessment of time.
Africa that may be continent by means of diverse cultures, each with its peculiar pair of folktales and oral traditions. These stories are rooted in the qualifications beliefs of the varied ethnic groups, serving as a general technique of passing down cultural heritage and values. A little distance from vast plains of East Africa to the colourful markets of West Africa, folktales happen to a big a part of African societies for centuries.
One of many remarkable aspects of African folktales might be their is there such a transcend time and geography. These stories have traveled across borders and reached far-flung corners found on earth, captivating audiences beyond Africa. They've a universal appeal, touching the hearts and minds of people from different backgrounds.
Facility of African folktales lie their moral lessons, which are sometimes delivered through anthropomorphized animals and magical creatures. These stories serve as a duplicate reflecting upon to know the condition, addressing various aspects of life similar to love, bravery, greed, and forgiveness. The characters throughout 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 with the Birds." In this story, the crafty tortoise deceives the birds into sharing the type of food you bought for them with him by pretending to be their friend. However, the birds soon discover his true intentions and compile to thwart his devious plans. This tale teaches us the benefit of discernment and wisdom. It reminds us to see to it and not to trust blindly, for appearances could be deceiving.
Another renowned folktale, "Why the Sky is Far Away," arises the Igbo people of Nigeria. It tells what makes it work of how it is that the sky used to be close to your workplace, but because of humans' greed and disrespect for nature, it moved farther away. This cautionary tale provides reminder no matter what the interdependence between humans and nature, urging us to cherish and preserve the environment.
The fantastic thing about African folktales lies of their is there such a seamlessly weave moral lessons into captivating narratives. Through engaging storytelling techniques, these tales have the readers' attention while subtly instilling values and principles. The characters become vessels all these lessons, allowing readers to follow their struggles and victories, ultimately imbibing the sanctity it does not matter message.
Moreover, African folktales often integrate the oral tradition of call-and-response, engaging the audience and creating a way community. These stories are supposed to be shared, sparking conversations around societal norms and values. They encourage dialogue and important thinking, inviting readers to mirror upon their very own lives and actions.
In a world stuffed with constant distractions and fast-paced living, the enchanting discovery African folktales comes complete with an oasis of tranquility and wisdom. They provide a good-needed escape from reality, allowing readers to immerse themselves in many of the magic and fantasy. These tales captivate the imagination, transporting us to distant lands and ancient times.
That we venture further up in the depths of African literature, let us embrace the enchantment of folktales and recognize hidden gems of wisdom they hold. With the 2nd not as this chapter, we'll delve into specific folktales several other regions of Africa, exploring their individual narratives add the moral lessons they bring forth. Prepare embark to purchase a journey of discovery and enlightenment where we unlock the riches of African literature and unravel the untold stories that lie within.
Uniquely now, allow us to pause, leaving the chapter situated on the precipice of another captivating tale, awaiting the turn despite page where new adventures and profound insights await.In the second 50 % this chapter, we continue our exploration of African folktales, diving deeper directly into the rich tapestry of narratives and moral lessons that lie within. Join me at times when 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 utilizing Elephant," a folktale well-liked among the Maasai people. This story chronicles the hare's adventures at the time of outsmarts the mighty elephant through wit and cunning. It highlights the ability of intelligence and quick thinking, showing us that the bulging smallest can conquer the mightiest when armed with cleverness and resourcefulness.
Traveling to Central Africa, we stumble upon the heartwarming story of "The Greedy Antelope and to discover the Kind Elephant" free from Bemba people of Zambia. On this tale, the antelope's insatiable greed results in her downfall, despite the fact that the kind-hearted elephant is rewarded for his or her generosity. It acts as 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 made available enchanting folktale of "Anansi the Spider" farther away from Ashanti culture in Ghana. Anansi, an authentic 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 using one's intelligence for the slightly more good.
In Southern Africa, the San people share their ancient wisdom during the entire folktale of "The Moon add the Hare." This story explains why the moon already has a hare living on its surface, having been a result of hare's bravery and self-sacrifice. It imparts the lesson of valor and bravado, reminding us that courage is available in many forms as well as that perhaps even the smallest acts could make a big impact.
Each of these folktales several other regions of Africa provides a unique lens by which we are able to understand and price tag continent's diverse cultures and heritage. They offer profound insights into set, societal values, and our relationship with the natural world.
Beyond their moral lessons, African folktales enchant us along with their vivid imagery and captivating storytelling techniques. We're transported to distant lands where animals speak, forests really glow, and magic takes center stage. The oral tradition of call-and-response continues to weave its magic, engaging readers because we are part of a shared experience and fostering feeling of togetherness and connection.
Since we immerse our civilization the enchanting prevalence African folktales, we are reminded of the ability of storytelling as vehicle for preserving cultural heritage and passing down wisdom from a particular generation made available next. These timeless stories have stood the assessment of time, 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, we all grapple with similar challenges and dilemmas in life. From each of these folktales, we discover common ground and learn valuable lessons that resonate with the own experiences.
So, dear book enthusiasts, let us embrace the enchantment of African folktales and uncover the profound wisdom they offer. Allow us to listen, learn, and reflect on top of the timeless stories which have shaped communities and instilled moral values for centuries.
We simply conclude this chapter, leaving you on the edge of discovery and enlightenment, let these folktales linger on your mind, inspiring conversations and sparking newfound curiosity. May they serve as a reminder that the treasures of African literature await, ready to be unlocked and shared with the world.
Seek for the next chapter, where we are going to embark on a new literary adventure, delving directly into the works of African authors and exploring the richness of their storytelling. Clearly now, supply magic of African folktales fill your hearts and minds, inviting that enable you to visit untold stories that lie within.
Remember, the ability of those tales lies not only in their enchantment but also in their the shape our own narratives and understanding no matter world. Open your minds besides the wonders of African literature, and provides the riches within unfold.
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Chapter 5: Exploration of African Oral Literature
Enter the field of African oral literature because we examine the historical significance and enduring impact of oral storytelling traditions. Via vast African continent, storytelling has had the chance to an intrinsic one cultural fabric for centuries. Connected from over the years because of the oral tradition, these narratives have not only entertained, but also stayed a singular form of education, transmission of cultural values, and preservation of history.
As a way to fully benefits richness of African oral literature, it is essential to learn about historical context wherein these traditions developed. For countless generations, prior the arrival of written forms of communication, African societies relied upon oral storytelling as a method o