West Africa - Whorrall - 7.4.4

Griots are traditionally known as West African storytellers who pass down oral history, genealogy, and cultural traditions through storytelling. They play a crucial role in preserving and transmitting the history and culture of their communities. Griots are highly respected and are often skilled musicians as well, using music and poetry to enhance their storytelling. While West African epic authors and musicians may also exist, the primary defining characteristic of a griot is their role as storytellers. Sculptures, on the other hand, do not align with the traditional role of a griot.

West African masks were mostly of animals. These masks were used in various ceremonies and rituals, such as initiation ceremonies, harvest celebrations, and funerals. The masks represented different animals, each with its own symbolic meaning and significance. They were believed to possess spiritual powers and were used to communicate with the spirit world. Animals were chosen as the subject of the masks because they were seen as powerful and sacred beings in West African culture. The masks were also used to honor and pay tribute to the natural world and its connection to human life.

Griots contributed to West African societies by preserving oral history. Griots were traditional storytellers and historians who passed down the history, culture, and traditions of their communities through oral narratives. They played a crucial role in preserving the collective memory of the society, ensuring that important stories and knowledge were passed on from generation to generation. Their storytelling skills and knowledge of history made them highly respected members of their communities, and they played a significant role in maintaining the cultural identity and heritage of West African societies.

Sculptures have historically played a significant role in religious ceremonies. They were often used to depict deities or important figures in religious traditions, and were believed to hold spiritual power or serve as a connection between the divine and the worshippers. Sculptures were used as objects of worship, and were placed in temples or other sacred spaces during religious ceremonies. They were also used to convey religious stories or teachings, helping to educate and inspire worshippers. Therefore, the importance of sculptures primarily lies in their association with religious ceremonies.

Dance was important to West African culture because it served multiple purposes. Firstly, it was used for entertainment, providing enjoyment and amusement to the community. Secondly, dance was used for honoring history, as it was a way to pass down stories and traditions from one generation to another. Lastly, dance played a significant role in religious ceremonies, serving as a form of worship and spiritual expression. Therefore, all of these reasons combined make dance an integral part of West African culture.