Sundiata Essay

After an empire has fallen, cultural elements are what keep the memories and practices of the empire thriving. In the epic Sundiata, translated by D. T. Niane, many cultural elements are outlined that are specific to old Mali. Throughout Sundiata’s travels many elements of Malian culture are thoroughly exemplified. During the thirteenth century Mali was starting to accept new ways of life and incorporate other cultural elements from around the world. Elements such as griots, music, and hospitality are trademarks of the Malian Empire and are what keep the history of Mali alive and separates Mali from other empires.

In old Mali, griots served as oral historians, advisors to kings, and public speakers. The Malian Empire is the only known empire to have griots making old Mali stand out from other empires. Griots are an important part of Mali’s history because of the lack of written records, so the griots were responsible for memorizing everything including “the history of [kings’] ancestors” (Niane 1). Griots are integral to Mali’s advanced culture because they kept the

peoples way of life alive for centuries. Griots did not just recite history, but rather transformed history into songs, which they played for those listening. These songs are still played today by modern griots. Griots have become a part of Mali’s advanced culture because they remember the history of the Malian Empire, helping to keep the culture alive.
Music was played by the griots along with age old songs in order to keep the history of the Malian Empire alive.

Whether there was a celebration or not, it was up to the griots to capture audiences with the beautiful sound of the ngoni or the kora, two of the most popular instruments used by griots. Although many other empires had music, the Malian Empire’s music was different because it served as a passage to the past. Music was a huge part of Sundiata’s travels, being played during battle and celebrations. Even today, music is a big part of Malian culture because it is a way to preserve history and everyone “has a weakness for music, for music is the griot’s soul” (39). Musicians loved to show their talents during celebrations, especially when people from other parts of the empire visited. The way in which music was performed separates Mali and has keep the culture alive for

centuries.
Hospitality was and still is a cultural element that makes Mali so advanced. Both the wealthy and poor were welcomed in all parts of the empire. Visitors were sometimes welcomed with big celebrations filled with music and dancing. Then the king or ruler welcomed the guest saying “my court is your court and my palace is yours. Make yourself at home.” (34). Throughout Sundiata’s travels many regions welcomed him, such as Ghana and Do. Hospitality is another key element in the advancement of old Mali because it displays how willing the people are to make peace with any stranger.
Although there are many other cultural elements that have kept the history of Mali alive griots, music, and hospitality are the most important. These elements also make Mali’s culture unique and shaped the Malian Empire. Griots make Mali more advanced than other empires of the time because they brought the history of Mali to life. Music was a way to preserve history and enhanced the mood of all people. Finally, hospitality gave the Malian Empire a good reputation and put the Malian Empire on the map.