Question

Discuss two of the themes in The Epic of Sundiata. For each theme, provide a detailed description of an instance in the text where the theme is presented. Why is this African epic still relevant today for the African continent?

Answer 1

The theme of heroism: The theme of heroism is the main theme of the epic like other epic. In respect of heroic poems the epic follows the conventional norms. The heroism of Sundiata is highlighted here. The heroism is no doubt presented with grandeur. The epic hero Sundiata is judicious, wise and courageous. He bears sufficient valor. Like other epic hero he maintains the rule of justice. In spite of his great suffering Sundiata remains bright. He is away from all types of sin and injustice. He gets praise from all nations.

Sunidiata’s courage surprises all. Being a king, he is praised and admired by the other kings. All the heroic qualities are reflected in Sunidiata. He is intelligent, brave, judicious, loyal and good commander.

The theme of exile: The theme of exile is a common theme in epic. In Ramayana and Mahabharata, we also find the theme of exile. Here the epic hero Sundiata and his mother is exiled from their father’s land. He is exiled in his childhood days and faces many obstacles with his mother and sister. After the death of his father, his step mother banished him and his mother and sister. The exile lasted for several years. They traveled various places. According to the prediction, Sunidiata can not walk till seven years of age. Then he is able to walk. But up to seven years he had to suffer a lot in exile. In their exile they have been treated badly by various people. But at last, according to the prediction, Sunidiata becomes the world famous king.

Africans are less developed nations. They get inspiration from the epic. They have been victim of many oppression. The tale of Sundiata helps them to be optimistic. Sundiata also faces many suffering. But at last he is able to prove his ability. Besides, the qualities of Sundiata help the Africans to follow in their life. It helps them to be moral and judicious. It helps them to be free from the sense of inferiority. Besides, in the perspective of racial discrimination, the example of Sundiata is also mentioned.