Epic of Sundiata

Sundiata (ca. 1210-1255)

The Mali Epic of Sundiata
- Late 13th, early 14th c.

Things to Consider:

Language/Oral components
Powerful People "in Disguise"
Physical Strength vs. Mercy/Intelligence/Emotions
See List of Characters (Note: Some names may be spelled slightly differently)

** Homework Questions **
Introduction:
vii:

viii:

According to the introduction, what benefit does Sundiata gain from his exile?

Background Information:
x-xi:

What two components of the religious views of the Malinke people do you find most interesting? Explain.

xi:

xi-xii:

What two components of Malinke society do you find most interesting? Explain.

xii-xiii:

xiv:

"Oral Tradition, Pronunciation, and Spelling":
xv-xvi:

Preface:
xxiv:

Explain: "The West has taught us to scorn oral sources in matters of history" (xxiv).

Other Discussion Questions:
"The Narrative in Africa"
97:

98:

What is the difference between restrictive and nonrestrictive oral narrative?
What is an epic?

99:

"Sundiata: Background"
101:

With which two religious figures is Sundiata most directly associated? Explain.