History Resource Cupboard – lessons and resources for schools

History Resource Cupboard - lessons and resources for schools

5. What can we learn from the Sundiata Epic about medieval Mali?

This lesson continues the theme addressed in the unit so far. Namely, the importance of using ‘alternative’ sources to approach an understanding of life in medieval Africa.

This time, students focus on the ‘Sundiata Epic’. This is a story that has been passed down by generations of griots (storytellers/musicians that still fulfill an important role in African culture), which outlines the way in which Sundiata established himself as the undisputed ruler of Mali.

Students first read through extracts from the story, illustrating it and answering questions as they begin to approach an understanding of its significance.

Then, they delve deeper into the possible meanings conveyed by the story, before reaching conclusions about the usefulness of the Sundiata Epic as a source about medieval Africa.  

 

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  • Lesson presentation: PowerPoint
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  • Worksheet 1: PDF

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