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

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