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1. Oral Tradition (Orality) and the Rise of African Novels
Definition:
Oral tradition refers to the passing down of stories, folktales, proverbs, songs, and history by word of mouth from one generation to another.
Role in the Rise of African Novels:
Provided themes, structure, and narrative style for early African novels.
African writers incorporated proverbs, folklore, and storytelling techniques into written form.
Helped preserve African worldviews and cultural values in literature.
Examples:
Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe uses Igbo proverbs and storytelling.
The Palm-Wine Drinkard by Amos Tutuola is based on Yoruba folk tales.
Form of Orality in African Literature (Exam Focus)
Orality refers to the use of spoken word and oral traditions in communication, storytelling, and literature. In African literature, orality is a major feature that connects written works to traditional African culture.
Forms of Orality:
1. Proverbs
Wise sayings that carry moral lessons.
Common in African novels to reflect culture and wisdom.
Example: Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe uses many Igbo proverbs.
2. Folktales
Traditional stories passed down orally.
Often teach morals, explain nature, or entertain.
Inspired many early African novels and children's stories.
3. Myths and Legends
Myths explain origins (creation stories), while legends are about heroes or past events.
Found in novels like Chaka by Thomas Mofolo.
4. Songs and Chants
Used in ceremonies, storytelling, and rituals. E.g war song, lullabies, incarnation etc
5. Riddles
Short puzzles or questions used for fun and education.
Encouraged critical thinking and were often used with children.
6. Storytelling Techniques
Use of repetition, call-and-response, suspense, and audience interaction.
Writers imitate these techniques in written form to preserve African voice.
Importance of Orality in African Novels
Preserves African culture and identity.
Bridges traditional and modern storytelling.
Makes literature relatable to African readers.
Challenges Western literary standards by introducing African forms.
2. Pamphlets and the Rise of African Novels
Pamphlets were short, inexpensive booklets, often written in local languages or Pidgin, popular in cities and towns during the early 20th century.
Role in the Rise of African Novels:
Served as early forms of African creative writing.
Focused on romance, crime, social advice, and urban life.
Helped develop reading interest among Africans.
Created a foundation for longer fictional works (novels).
Example:
The Onitsha Market Literature in Nigeria – Pamphlets like Drunkards Believe Bar as Heaven and How to Get Rich Overnight were widely read.