Literary Analysis #2
Sundiata: an epic of old Mali by D. T. Niane, is a story of Sundiata, the greatest king of the Ancient African Kingdom. Sundiata came into the world with an interesting story that leads to many obstacles that he had to overcome. History, destiny, and heroism are portrayed throughout the old tale.These themes illustrate the causes that lead Sundiata to become a successful ruler of the Mali Empire.
The history of Sundiata is a vital part in the history of the ancient African kings of Mali. In chapter one the griot ,Djeli Mamoudou Kouyate, states, “I teach kings the history of their ancestors, so that the lives of the ancients might serve them as an example, for the world is old, but the future springs from the past." It is often told that most men have “short-term memory”, forgetting weakness and accomplishments. It is always important for a society to remember its history, to celebrate and honor the ones before them for all they have done. Add quote During the epic, Sundiata was known for showing respect for what came before him. His goal was to imitate Alexander the Great through his honoring of alliances created by his father Naré Maghan.…show more content… On page 53, griot Djeli Mamadou Kouyate states this when Sundiata realizes his heroism, “In the life of every man there comes a moment when doubt settles in and the man questions himself on his own destiny, but on this evening it was not yet doubt which assailed Djata, for he was thinking rather of what powers he could employ to injury Sosso-Soumaoro.” Sundiata experienced a point in the story where he doubted himself, but that’s when his heroism kicked in. Based of the message from the text, Sundiata’s strength is what made him the hero that he is. For example his crippled legs did not stop him from having such strong arms. Sundiata’s heroism stood out when he was able
