Dec 29, 2009

Sundiata | Topics for Further Study

The griot plays an important role in Malinke society and in sustaining and developing the oral texts of such epics as Sundiata. Find one or more passages from the text of Sundiata in which the griot's art is discussed. Contrast that image with the image of the historian in American or European cultures.

Explore expressions of friendship in the epic. Who are the important sets of friends? What traits are admired in friends? How do friends help Sundiata accomplish his destiny?

Animal imagery plays an important role in the epic. What does this imagery add to your...