Unit 8: Introduction to African Literature

1. Folktales and Oral Literature

• Folktales are traditional stories passed down orally.

• Teach morals, cultural values, and history.
  Types of folktales:

• Animal tales

• Trickster tales

• Origin stories

2. Proverbs and Their Literary Value

• Short, wise sayings expressing common truths or advice.

• Often used in African literature to teach and emphasize themes.
  Examples:

• “A bird in hand is worth two in the bush.”

• “Wisdom is like a baobab tree; no one individual can embrace it.”

3. African Short Stories

• Often reflect African society, tradition, colonialism, or modern life.

• Use local settings, characters, and issues.
  Skills developed:

• Recognizing African themes and settings

• Understanding social, political, or cultural messages

• Relating literature to real-life African experiences