Compose an Essay
You've read about cultural contributions of an African empire. Choose the one you feel is most important. Write 3 or 4 paragraphs describing the contributions and explaining why it is the most important.
Feel free to use the work you did in your History Journal to help with your essay. Review the lesson content. In your essay you should support your points using evidence from the lesson and the material you just read.
One of the most important cultural contributions of an African empire is the Mali Empire's rich tradition of oral literature. Oral literature refers to the storytelling, poetry, and songs that are passed down from generation to generation through oral means rather than written texts. The Mali Empire, which reached its peak in the 14th century, was renowned for its skilled griots, or oral historians, who played a crucial role in preserving and disseminating the empire's history, values, and beliefs.
The epic of Sundiata, one of the most famous oral narratives from the Mali Empire, vividly depicts the rise of the empire's founder, Sundiata Keita. It not only serves as a captivating saga but also serves as an important historical document. Through the epic, the griots celebrated Sundiata's leadership qualities, bravery, and his ability to unite diverse ethnic groups, creating a sense of unity within the empire. This rich oral tradition allowed the Mali Empire to develop a shared cultural identity, reinforcing the ideals of leadership and unity that guided the empire's rulers.
Furthermore, the oral literature of the Mali Empire provided a medium for the transmission of moral and ethical values. Through proverbs, moral tales, and praise songs, the griots imparted important life lessons to their audiences. These stories served as a guide for behavior and a means of preserving the moral fabric of the society. The oral literature emphasized virtues such as courage, wisdom, and loyalty, instilling these values into the minds of the people. By doing so, the Mali Empire was able to maintain a stable and harmonious society.
Additionally, the oral literature of the Mali Empire played a crucial role in the education and intellectual development of its people. Through storytelling and poetry, the griots fostered a love for learning and creativity. This tradition encouraged critical thinking, as listeners were often challenged to interpret the hidden meanings and lessons within the narratives. The oral literature also provided a platform for artistic expression, as griots used poetic language, rhythm, and melody to captivate their audiences. This emphasis on education and creativity contributed to the intellectual flourishing of the Mali Empire, creating a society that valued knowledge and innovation.
In conclusion, the rich tradition of oral literature in the Mali Empire was not only a vital cultural contribution but also the most important one. Through the epic of Sundiata and other oral narratives, the empire was able to unite its people, celebrate its history, and promote its core values. Moreover, the oral literature served as a means of transmitting moral and ethical values, contributing to the maintenance of a harmonious society. Lastly, the tradition of oral literature encouraged intellectual development and fostered a love for learning and creativity. Overall, the oral literature of the Mali Empire played a pivotal role in shaping the cultural, social, and intellectual landscape of the empire.