Historical Context and Significance
The epic of Sundiata has been the subject of much scholarly discussion. Although some information on 13th-century Mali is available from Arabic sources like Ibn Khaldun, there is a severe limitation of written documentation on this period. Therefore the oral evidence of ancient Mali is especially critical. Although Western historians have traditionally given preference to written records, oral traditions including the epic of Sundiata have recently gained recognition as important demonstrations of Africa's rich cultural heritage and as legitimate literary constructions. It reflects the early stages in West African traditions when different cultural influences were still coming together. Knowledge of 13th-century Malian history is in large part derived from the Sundiata tradition. The epic of Sundiata is still an integral part of Mande culture. Ethnographic research has shown that the story continues to be retold by griots and through masked ritual performances. Today the epic of Sundiata has become part of history lessons in primary schools in Mali, Gambia, Senegal and Guinea.
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