Subject
Tales -- South Africa Books
Best books
James A. Honey
South-African Folk-Tales
"South-African Folk-Tales" by James A. Honeÿ is a collection of traditional stories that delve into the folklore of South Africa, reflecting a narrative style likely formed in the early 20th century. The tales centralize animal characters such as Jackal, Lion, and Hyena, exploring various morals and cultural anecdotes derived from the rich tapestry of South African mythology. These stories aim to preserve the wisdom and teachings of different indigenous cultures, particularly those of the Bushmen. The opening of the collection introduces the author's intent to share these folk-tales not only for their entertainment value but also for their ethnological importance. It highlights how many stories have roots in various languages and cultures, such as Dutch influences and adaptations from earlier tales, showcasing the complex heritage of South African narratives. The introduction sets the stage for a thematic exploration of human nature, community, and the moral dimensions of folklore, promising an engaging read for those interested in cultural insights and animal fables that reflect societal values.
George McCall Theal
Kaffir folk-lore : $b A selection from the traditional tales current among the people living on the eastern border of the Cape Colony with copious explanatory notes
"Kaffir Folk-Lore: A Selection from the Traditional Tales Current Among the People Living on the Eastern Border of the Cape Colony" by Geo. McCall Theal is a collection of traditional folklore written in the late 19th century. The book presents a variety of tales from the Amaxosa tribe, providing insight into their culture, beliefs, and social practices through these narratives that serve as reflections of their imaginative faculties and societal norms. The opening of the work includes a preface and an introductory chapter that establish the significance of folklore in understanding the customs and beliefs of the Kaffir people. The author emphasizes the importance of these stories, suggesting that they not only entertain but also serve as critical indicators of the tribe's historical context, governance, and religious beliefs. The introduction includes various remarks about the changes in traditions due to European influence and sets the stage for the tales that follow, highlighting the adaptability and evolution of folklore among the Kaffirs, showcasing a blend of both ancient traditions and more contemporary influences.
Sarah F. Bourhill
Fairy tales from South Africa
"Fairy Tales from South Africa" by Sarah F. Bourhill and Beatrice L. Drake is a collection of traditional folk tales written in the early 20th century. This book gathers and arranges indigenous South African stories, especially those from Swazi, Zulu, Shangani, and Suto origins, retold for children and general readers interested in folklore. The topic centers on classic fairy tales featuring magical creatures, brave and clever heroes, transformations, and the customs and daily life of South African tribes before colonial times. The opening of the book begins with a warm introduction addressed to children and all lovers of fairy tales, explaining the origins and oral tradition of these stories among Kafir (now known as Nguni) peoples—stories told by elders around evening fires. The introduction describes how such tales are shared in secret and guarded with ritual, reflecting their cultural significance. Following the preface, the contents list reveals a diverse set of tales, each with its own magical or moral focus. The first stories introduce a variety of characters: Setuli, the deaf and mute son of a chief who gains magical powers from a fairy, proving his wisdom and bravery; a king’s son who loses and regains his father’s cattle through a magical song and the help of a fairy; clever animals, enchanted objects, ogres, and helpful woodland creatures—all weaving a rich tapestry of South African lore in their beginnings.
Arthur Owen Vaughan
Old Hendrik's Tales
"Old Hendrik's Tales" by Captain Arthur Owen Vaughan is a collection of engaging stories written during the early 20th century. The book introduces readers to folklore and fables featuring African animals, particularly focusing on the clever and cunning character of Old Jackalse (Jackal) and his various interactions with other animals like Ou' Wolf (Wolf) and Ou' Baviyaan (Baboon). This narrative style is likely to appeal to readers looking for whimsical storytelling rooted in African culture. At the start of the collection, readers meet Old Hendrik, a gray kitchen boy, who recounts a tale to the children about how Old Baboon came to have a kink in his tail. The children's playful antics with Old Hendrik set the stage for the story, which involves a humorous depiction of the clever Jackal outsmarting the Wolf, demonstrating his characteristic cunning throughout a series of misadventures. The opening blends a lighthearted tone with vivid storytelling, inviting the audience into the rich tradition of oral storytelling imbued with lessons about cleverness and consequence.
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