Sundiata: An Epic of Old Mali

Sundiata This ancient African epic began as an oral story told by griots the historians of Africa. The narrative of this story is from the Mandingo people of Western Africa.

Sundiata Mari Djata (later called Sundiata),is the story’s hero… a king who really existed! He was a powerful leader in 1235 who reestablished the Mandingo empire of Old Mali This epic story, while based on fact, is not considered a historical document…rather Sundiata has become a legend about extraordinary deeds that have been passed from generation to generation.

Sundiata No one knows how many centuries old this version of the epic is. The translated versions have lost many features of the original languages, yet still contain original songs, repetition, and proverbs that accompany the oral performance.

Prophecy: discovering what fate has ordained Sundiata This epic emphasizes fate, prophecy, and sorcery, which play the role that gods play in other epics. Prophecy: discovering what fate has ordained Sorcery: powerful tool helping people fulfill prophecy and achieve what they are fated to achieve.

Summary King Maghan Kon Fatta of Mali has died leaving the young prince (named Mari Djata) and his mother (the King’s 2nd wife) alone. The King’s first wife, Sassouma, forces Sundiata and his mother to leave the palace and live in poverty.

Summary continued Sassouma wants to place her son on the throne, yet a prophecy has declared Mari Djata (Sundiata) as the future hero and king. Few believe this prophecy because at age seven Sundiata still cannot walk.

Summary continued One day, Sassouma mocks Mari Djata’s (Sundiata) mother because he is unable to gather baobab leaves. In shame, Mari Djata’s (Sundiata) mother scolds him for his “useless” legs. He then shows his strength by bending an iron bar in to a bow, uprooting an entire baobab tree, and bringing it back to his mother.

Summary continued From this point on Mari Djata is know as Sundiata and he continues to develop superhuman strength. Sassouma exiles Sundiata and he travels to the distant kingdom of Mema where he grows up. While Sundiata is in exile, an evil sorcerer-king (Soumaoro Kante) takes over his native land in Mali. Sundiata then sets out to free his people.

Summary Continued These two men are poised for battle when fate steps in to help Sundiata…