Chapter 1: Start in African Literature

Relish the rich and diverse landscape of African literature, from its roots in oral storytelling traditions to its modern evolution. The concept of African literature this usually is a treasure trove of captivating narratives, vibrant storytelling, and compelling voices pushing aside be discovered. As book enthusiasts, we invite for a journey to unlock the riches of African literature and delve directly into untold stories which have shaped the continent's literary heritage.

African literature this may be a testament to the power of words, just like deeply intertwined who have the oral traditions which have been figured out through generations. Very long 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 inside the community, serving because the custodians of oral literature and preserving the collective memory health of their people.

This rich tradition of oral storytelling laid the foundation for the diverse tapestry of African literature now we have today. Far from epic tales of Sundiata Keita in West Africa alongside the oral poetry it does not matter Zulu people in South Africa, these stories were woven throughout the very fabric of African society. They celebrated bravery, love, wisdom, and moral lessons, serving not exclusively as entertainment but also as educational tools, guiding individuals on the path to self-discovery.

With the advent of writing systems using the colonization of Africa, a new chapter in African literature emerged. African writers, both on the continent also in the diaspora, began using written word as a method to challenge dominant narratives, voice their experiences, and reclaim their cultural heritage. This literary renaissance ushered in great narratives that offered unique perspectives on African history, identity, when using the struggles faced by its people.

In the mid-20s, the waves of African independence movements further fueled the expansion of African literature. Writers corresponding to Chinua Achebe, Wole Soyinka, and Ngugi wa Thiong'o emerged as literary giants, employing their of work to be explore post-colonial themes, social injustice, and to discover the complexities of cultural identity. Their novels, plays, and poetry played a crucial role in shaping the African literary canon and capturing the spirit require continent in transition.

Today, African literature is continuing to evolve, embracing a large selection 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 numerous others, are amplifying diverse voices and shedding light on the intricate layers of African experiences.

The ability of African literature represents its ability to connect readers with a civilization steeped in history, culture, and human experiences which will could have been previously unfamiliar. Through vibrant prose, vivid descriptions, and fascinating narratives, African authors offer readers a window into your complexities of African societies, providing insights and fostering empathy across geographical and cultural divides.

As book enthusiasts, we're lucky to embark using this literary exploration together, uncovering the wonders of African literature and immersing ourselves in the untold stories pushing aside be discovered. Join us most of us delve deeper up into the next incentive chapter, where we are going to take you on a dealings with the several genres and key authors that have shaped African literature. Plan be captivated, enlightened, and inspired coming from the richness of African storytelling.

<*End no 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. In the initial a lot less this chapter, we launched into a dealings with the origins of African literature, from its roots in oral storytelling traditions to its transformation into a robust written form. Now, most of us delve deeper into an additional half, we will uncover the colourful genres and influential authors that have shaped the African literary landscape.

One of the vital prominent genres in African literature certainly the novel. Farther away from early works of Chinua Achebe alongside the contemporary writings of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, African novelists have deftly captured the complexities of African society will certainly be ongoing struggles. Their stories navigate themes of identity, power dynamics, colonialism, and after that occurs 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 matter what protagonist, Okonkwo, and showcasing the rich cultural heritage irregardless of 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 did the exploration of other genres, similar to poetry and drama. Poets like Leopold Sedar Senghor and Christopher Okigbo captured the idea African beauty, spirituality, and struggles through their lyrical verses. Senghor's task 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 while using King's Horseman" delves for the clash between African traditional beliefs and British colonial rule in Nigeria. Soyinka's works not limited to entertained but also held vintage buffet to society, highlighting social and political issues while preserving African cultural heritage.

Another genre that obtained prominence in recent years is African speculative fiction. Authors like Nnedi Okorafor and Tade Thompson have embraced the realm it does not matter fantastical to address contemporary African issues and reimagine African narratives. Through places on vision, fantasy, and magical realism, they challenge traditional boundaries and envision alternate futures to suit continent.

African women writers, too, have acquired an indelible mark found on the literary landscape. Further from empowering prose of Buchi Emecheta other than 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 most of the people to tell their untold stories.

Beyond novels, poetry, drama, and speculative fiction, African literature encompasses a vast quite a lot of genres and copies, including short stories, memoirs, and essays. The diversity and multiplicity of voices within African literature reflect the rich tapestry no matter the continent itself.

As book enthusiasts, we include privilege of immersing inside ourselves these literary treasures and embracing the complexities of African storytelling. Each page presents solutions challenge our perspectives, foster empathy, and deepen our understanding around the globe around us.

So, let us continue this exploration together, embracing the magic of African literature and relishing in the untold stories that await discovery. With each turn in spite of what the page, we are going to uncover new narratives, explore vibrant genres, and go along with the voices that shape this remarkable literary tradition. Open your hearts and minds, on behalf of the riches of African literature are waiting to be unlocked.

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Chapter 2: The Power of Storytelling in African Culture

Since we find ourselves amidst an continent as diverse and vibrant as Africa, storytelling occupies a central function in its rich tapestry of traditions and customs. Poured from over the years, stories in African culture aren't mere entertainment however to a powerful tool that connects people, preserves history, and imparts wisdom. The art of storytelling weaves a posh web of narratives that collectively construct backbone of African literature.

Middle of African storytelling lies the oral tradition, a novel answer communication getting withstood the test of time. Unlike written literature, which serves as a very important medium in many cultures, African storytelling places emphasis on the spoken word. This oral tradition is deeply embedded inside the roots of African society, serving such as a means of preserving heritage and passing down knowledge to a different generation to another.

Storytelling in African culture just isn't limited to specific spaces or occasions but permeates many aspects 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 meanwhile with the responsibility of preserving the collective memory within their communities. Through their narratives, they educate, inspire, and connect the following generations to their roots.

Perhaps used to make African storytelling truly exceptional is its skill to transcend serious amounts of place. Oral narratives aren't static entities however to living and breathing stories that adapt to the changing needs and context within audience. A story may evolve mainly because retold, reflecting the influences of various cultures and experiences. This dynamic nature assist 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 just like a objective of entertainment but additionally as a strong conduit for cultural preservation. Stories function a bridge surrounded by the past, present, and future, allowing communities to maintain a way 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 as griot or jali, holds a revered position within African communities. They possess an encyclopedic know-how history, folklore, and mythology, and serve as the keepers no importance oral tradition. With your rhythmic voices and captivating gestures, the griots mesmerize their audiences, transporting these to 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 advent of written literature, African authors have embraced the written word as being medium to amplify their voices and share their stories using the world. Influenced coming from the rich heritage of oral storytelling, African literature draws upon the power of narratives to illuminate the diverse experiences and struggles irregardless of continent.

In recent years, there was a resurgence of willingness to 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 off from their 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 world consciousness.

That we both delve deeper into the world of African storytelling, we actually began to unravel the intricacies of a narrative tradition that has definitely stood the test of time. The tales that emerge by this cultural tapestry will not be merely entertainment; they're windows for the hearts and minds of a various continent. They carry the burden of history, the expanse of imagination, and the facility to shape narratives in the past few years to come.

At the fundamental of African storytelling lies a sense community and connection, a recognition that the stories we share certainly are a testament to our shared experiences and collective memory. Above the vast African continent, tales of courage, love, and resilience are passed on from one puddle generation to a different, each narrative etching itself directly into tapestry of African culture.

Within the vibrant rhythms of African storytelling, one you can locate a deep appreciation regarding the richness of oral traditions. These traditions do not limit our service to just function a means of preserving history but in addition as automobile for sparking dialogue and fostering understanding. In the second fifty percent of this chapter, we review the power of storytelling in fostering empathy and dismantling stereotypes within African society.

As the tales unfold, they offer glimpses into diverse African cultures, revealing the complexities and nuances that make each community distinct. Off from nomadic tribes no matter Sahara beyond just the bustling cities of West Africa, stories transcend geographical boundaries, allowing us to check diverse landscapes and varied perspectives that exist within the continent.

Through storytelling, African literature challenges the homogenizing narratives that have often characterized Africa. Rather than presenting a monolithic view, it celebrates the quite a few 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 of your continent unassisted terms.

One cannot delve into African storytelling without acknowledging the central role of ladies in preserving and shaping these narratives. Aloof from strong-willed griottes of Mali significantly better powerful mkizis of East Africa, African women are generally the unsung heroes of storytelling, weaving intricate tales that remember the resilience and wisdom health of their communities. This recognition of female storytellers simply not only brings balance significantly better narrative landscape but also highlights the role of women in African society as custodians of knowledge and tradition.

In the past few decades, African literature has experienced a renaissance, with a good number of African authors gaining international recognition and acclaim. These voices in terms of a fresh perspective on African experiences, decompose or rot stereotypes, and challenge dominant narratives. Through their works, they confront issues corresponding to political unrest, social injustice, and gender inequality, shedding light situated on the complexities it does not matter African experience and igniting conversations that resonate far except continent's borders.

Once we check out second fifty percent of this chapter, we unravel the threads that connect Learn Additional to its contemporary manifestations. Aloof from oral traditions no matter what griots to the written word of recent African authors, storytelling is continuing to evolve and adapt while remaining rooted within your fundamental purpose: to make our stories and connect us as well as the broader human experience.

Summing up, the facility of storytelling in African culture is undeniable. It is the spoken and written word that Africa's diverse narratives find their voice, bridging the gaps between generations and cultures. These stories, using their universal themes and unique perspectives, have the power to inspire, educate, and unite a world audience. After we journey deeper to treasures of African literature, we do not limit our service to just unlock the untold stories possibly the most continent but in addition embrace the wealth of human experiences that make all the people part of a greater tapestry of existence. So join us as we did embark using this voyage, discovering the riches that lie throughout the stories of Africa, and see the power of storytelling firsthand.

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Chapter 3: African Mythology: Gods, Spirits, and Legends

Delve for the captivating realm of African mythology and find out the fascinating tales of gods, spirits, and legendary creatures. With a costly and diverse cultural heritage, Africa stands to provide a treasure trove of captivating stories which have been linked through generations. These myths reflect the beliefs, values, and traditions no matter what African people, offering a glimpse into their profound spiritual connections utilizing 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 in addition to depths no matter oceans, gods comparable to Olorun, Amun-Ra, and Ngai command the forces of nature, bestowing blessings and enacting punishments seeing that see fit. Whether it was the thunderous storm summoned by Shango, the Yoruba god of thunder and lightning, or if the gentle rains that the new Zulu deity Nomkhubulwane will give you nurture celebrations, these gods embody the awe-inspiring forces of nature that Africans have revered for centuries.

Made available 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 loads of African cultures, represents both beauty and danger, luring unsuspecting people that have her irresistible charm. These spirits embody the vibrant tapestry of African folklore, adding intrigue and enchantment much better mythical narratives.

The realm of African mythology also encompasses a wide variety legendary creatures that captivate the imagination. Removed from fearsome Mngwa, a huge cat-like creature consideration to stalk the forests of Tanzania, offered mischievous Tokoloshe, a creature that delights in causing mischief and hassle, these mythical beings offers you glimpse back into the African belief within the coexistence swapped 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 serve as a technique of passing down traditions, beliefs, and moral teachings from one particular generation alongside the next. Via the oral tradition, griots and storytellers have preserved these tales, putting the valuable knowledge published in them remains alive within the hearts and minds of Africans the actual continent.

In moments when we journey deeper throughout the realm of African mythology, we are going to encounter quite a plethora of captivating narratives that weave together the fabric of African cultures. Farther away from creation stories that explain the origins of life provided tales of epic battles between gods and mortals, each story offers a singular comprehension of the various perspectives that comprise the African continent.

With the 2nd any this chapter, we will delve into specific African myths, exploring the significance of these stories on their respective cultures. We are going to uncover the origins of the traditional Egyptian god Osiris utilizing powerful Yoruba trickster deity Eshu. We may also embark going on a journey into the thought of the Dogon people, the particular mythical Nommo beings insure for having played a pivotal operate in the creation of humanity.

Get ready to be enchanted like we unravel these stories filled with drama, symbolism, and profound wisdom. African mythology invites us to embrace the power of imagination, to question our set up creation, and to gain a deeper appreciation for the wonder and complexity of find out the experience. Join us as we currently are unlock the riches of African literature and embark linked to dealings with the untold stories that have shaped the lives of millions throughout history.Create be captivated as we currently are continue our exploration of African mythology, delving deeper up in the rich tapestry of gods, spirits, and legendary creatures that define this enchanting realm. These tales really passed down through generations, carrying around with them the beliefs, values, and traditions no importance African people, but it is through them so we truly actually began to to comprehend profound spiritual connections and forces that shape their lives.

Once we embark all of this second 50 % our journey, we encounter the traditional Egyptian god Osiris, a central figure in Egyptian mythology. Osiris, the god irregardless of afterlife, resurrection, and fertility, plays a pivotal capabilities in the complex cosmology of Egyptian belief. His story embodies the cyclical nature of life and death, along with the eternal struggle between order and chaos. Through his death and resurrection, Osiris is known to be the hope of rebirth and renewal, offering solace and reassurance to the ancient Egyptians when they faced the uncertainties of their personal existence.

Moving in the whole continent, we come head to head 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 connecting 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 for a reminder of the advantages of making wise choices and studying under our mistakes.

Our journey then takes us provided captivating an entire world of the Dogon people, your mythical Nommo beings hold great significance. In accordance with Dogon mythology, the Nommo are aliens 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 from them reality of mystery and wonder, inviting us to contemplate the origins individuals own existence and our place inside the vast cosmos.

It is categorized in these myths, and countless others, so we invent the main African cultures from the wisdom they impart. These vivid narratives function a technique of passing down traditions, beliefs, and moral teachings into the next generation to a higher, engaging in the valuable knowledge discovered them remains alive in the hearts and minds of Africans each of your continent.

Like we immerse our civilization the varied perspectives offered by African mythology, we build 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 explain the origins of life, plus the symbolic characters that embody virtues and vices all contribute to the richness associated with this extraordinary literary heritage.

Let us be enthralled once again due to the fact 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. Via the power of imagination, they invite us to impeach our point life time and embrace the endless possibilities that lie before us.

Join us because we further unlock the riches of African literature, introducing a journey that celebrates the cultural diversity and heritage in this magnificent continent. Together, let us cherish these stories to be testament offered resilience, creativity, and extraordinary spirit notwithstanding African people.

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Chapter 4: Folktales and Moral Lessons

Witness the enchantment of African folktales and unravel the profound moral lessons embedded within these timeless stories. These captivating narratives truly learned through generations, serving to provide a treasure trove of wisdom and entertainment in African cultures. Folktales also entertain but in addition educate and enlighten, conveying valuable life lessons that have stood the assessment of time.

Africa that may be a continent while using diverse cultures, each with its other great deal of folktales and oral traditions. These stories are rooted in the environment beliefs of the varied ethnic groups, serving to be technique of passing down cultural heritage and values. Away from vast plains of East Africa to the colourful markets of West Africa, folktales tend to be a vast part of African societies for centuries.

One of the remarkable aspects of African folktales is that that old transcend some time to geography. These stories have traveled across borders and reached far-flung corners around the globe, captivating audiences beyond Africa. They've a universal appeal, touching the hearts and minds of people more backgrounds.

In the hub of African folktales lie their moral lessons, which are often delivered through anthropomorphized animals and magical creatures. These stories serve as a graphic reflecting upon each of our condition, addressing various aspects of life reminiscent of love, bravery, greed, and forgiveness. The characters found in these tales, whether human or animal, grapple with challenges and dilemmas that resonate with recipients of all ages.

Take, for instance, the well-known West African folktale "The Tortoise and after that occurs the Birds." On this story, the crafty tortoise deceives the birds into sharing their food with him by pretending it doesn't need to be their friend. However, the birds soon discover his true intentions and accumulate to thwart his devious plans. This tale teaches us the value of discernment and wisdom. It reminds us to know and never to trust blindly, for appearances will be deceiving.

Another renowned folktale, "Why the Sky is Far Away," occurs the Igbo people of Nigeria. It tells the storyplot of how it is that the sky used to be close to celebrations, but because of humans' greed and disrespect for nature, it moved farther away. This cautionary tale is a reminder no matter the interdependence between humans and nature, urging us to cherish and preserve the environment.

The fantastic thing about African folktales lies of their power to seamlessly weave moral lessons into captivating narratives. Through engaging storytelling techniques, these tales try to keep the readers' attention while subtly instilling values and principles. The characters become vessels definitely the lessons, allowing readers to follow their struggles and victories, ultimately imbibing the sanctity whenever there is a serious 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 meant to be shared, sparking conversations around societal norms and values. They encourage dialogue and demanding thinking, inviting readers to reflect upon their very own lives and actions.

On a planet stuffed with constant distractions and fast-paced living, the enchanting occurrence of African folktales comes with an oasis of tranquility and wisdom. They provide one-needed escape from reality, allowing readers to immerse themselves in a large magic and fantasy. These tales captivate the imagination, transporting us to distant lands and ancient times.

That we all venture further up in the depths of African literature, allow us to embrace the enchantment of folktales and have an understanding of hidden gems of wisdom they hold. In the second one third this chapter, we'll delve into specific folktales extra regions of Africa, exploring their unique narratives together with the moral lessons they convey forth. Organize embark throughout the entire journey of discovery and enlightenment after we unlock the riches of African literature and unravel the untold stories that lie within.

Distinctively now, allow us to pause, leaving the chapter situated on the precipice of another captivating tale, awaiting the turn whenever there is a serious page where new adventures and profound insights await.With the 2nd the this chapter, we continue our exploration of African folktales, diving deeper on the rich tapestry of narratives and moral lessons that lie within. Join me as we did 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 while using Elephant," a folktale popular among the Maasai people. This story chronicles the hare's adventures as he outsmarts the mighty elephant through wit and cunning. It highlights the facility of intelligence and quick thinking, showing us that there are smallest can conquer the mightiest when armed with cleverness and resourcefulness.

Moving to Central Africa, we come upon the heartwarming story of "The Greedy Antelope while using the Kind Elephant" faraway from Bemba people of Zambia. On this tale, the antelope's insatiable greed leads to her downfall, as the kind-hearted elephant is rewarded to find their generosity. It creates a reminder that greed only results in unhappiness, whereas acts of compassion and selflessness bring joy and fulfillment.

Moving towards West Africa, we're introduced as well as the enchanting folktale of "Anansi the Spider" far from Ashanti culture in Ghana. Anansi, a pioneering and mischievous spider, weaves intricate webs of trickery and cunning to outwit his adversaries. These tales teach us valuable lessons about wisdom, cleverness, and advantageous of using one's intelligence for the more gradually good.

In Southern Africa, the San people share their ancient wisdom to the folktale of "The Moon together with the Hare." This story explains why the moon possesses 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 and also that possibly the smallest acts could make a significant impact.

A growing number of folktales from multiple regions of Africa it offers a unique lens during which we will understand and profit continent's diverse cultures and heritage. They provide profound insights into standard, societal values, and our relationship with the body's world.

Beyond their moral lessons, African folktales enchant us which have vivid imagery and captivating storytelling techniques. We are transported to distant lands where animals speak, forests come to life, and magic takes center stage. The oral tradition of call-and-response continues to weave its magic, engaging readers deep in a shared experience and fostering a sense togetherness and connection.

Just as we immerse inside ourselves the enchanting world of African folktales, we're reminded of the facility of storytelling as a way for preserving cultural heritage and passing down wisdom from one generation on top of the next. These timeless stories have stood the test of time, captivating audiences far aside from borders of Africa.

In their simplicity lies their universality, transcending language and cultural barriers. They teach us that no matter our background, we all grapple with similar challenges and dilemmas in life. From each of these folktales, we discover mutual understanding learn by valuable lessons that resonate with your own experiences.

So, dear book enthusiasts, let us embrace the enchantment of African folktales and uncover the profound wisdom they offer. Let us listen, learn, and reflect on top of the timeless stories that have shaped communities and instilled moral values for centuries.

Where we conclude this chapter, leaving you nearby of discovery and enlightenment, let these folktales linger inside, inspiring conversations and sparking newfound curiosity. May they serve as a reminder where the treasures of African literature await, able to be unlocked and shared aided by the world.

Realize for the next chapter, where we are going to embark on a brand new literary adventure, delving with the works of African authors and exploring the richness of the storytelling. However for now, put your trust in magic of African folktales fill your hearts and minds, inviting you to delight in the untold stories that lie within.

Remember, the ability of those tales lies not only in their enchantment but also in their about shape our own narratives and understanding irrespective of world. Open your minds much better wonders of African literature, and then just give the riches within unfold.

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Chapter 5: Exploration of African Oral Literature

Enter the space of African oral literature that we all examine the historical significance and enduring impact of oral storytelling traditions. Throughout the entire vast African continent, storytelling is to use an intrinsic one cultural fabric for centuries. Related from down the family at the oral tradition, these narratives have not only entertained, but also taken care of a unique type of education, transmission of cultural values, and preservation of history.

With the intention to fully be grateful for richness of African oral literature, it is necessary to to comprehend historical context through which these traditions developed. For countless generations, in advance of the arrival of written forms of communication, African societies relied upon oral storytelling as a way o