Sundiata An Epic of Old Mali - Research Paper Example

Several arguments have been put forward to explain this great epic. Apparently, there are major conflicting views on the pertinent issue of culture. One difference is the issue of Islam as a religion. Quite clearly, this religion has been alluded to until later on in the text almost at the very end of the chapters. The importance of religion in this dynasty is clear through reference to African traditional religion which is clouded with the presence of witchcraft, sorcery and prophets (McKissak 49).

However, other criticisms state that Islam is an important part in the creation of Mali. The ancestor of the Mandigo people was a Muslim. At one point, Sundiata’s mother even complains of the town of Sosso going against the word of Allah who is a respected prophet in the Islam religion. From the text, it is possible to say that it seems that Islam was only used to predestine power. Religion was not very important as fate was greatly applied. According to McKissak, one griot says, “each man finds his way already marked out for him and he can change nothing of it” (15).

This clearly states the great beliefs in prophesy and fate. This is what probably gave Sundiata hope and strength to do what he did despite his past. Another conflicting view is the importance of griots as put in the text. While some critics state that they are only traders and spreaders of information, their importance in shaping Sundiata’s life during his exile are recognized by other critics. First, this tale has successfully been told over the years orally without any publications. The griots have played an important role in this because as they moved around doing their trade rounds, they told the unchanged story over and over again (McKissak 209).

During his exile period, they showed Sundiata around and this was one way with which he got exposure. Their undoubted importance is further expressed by the author who refers to