Course Description
Examination and analysis of African myths, legends, fables, etc. The significance and functionalism of these and comparison to those in other world religions.
Athena Title
AFRICAN MYTHOLOGY
Equivalent Courses
Not open to students with credit in RELI(AFST) 3202
Prerequisite
RELI(AFST) 1200 or AFST(RELI) 1201
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
The course affords students the opportunity to have basic understanding of the functionalism and significance of the oral sources of information in African Religion as contained in the myths, legends, etc., as philosophical/theological explanations of the mysteries surrounding not only the existence of humanity, but also the universe as a whole. It is also expected that, through engagements such as classroom teaching, discussions, debates, essay writing, and oral presentations, the students who take the course will not only develop an appreciation of the function and significance of these elements in African Religion, and to African people, but also, in a comparative way, become more informed about their cognitive values in conjunction with similar elements in their various backgrounds, with regard to universal religious perspectives of the origin of humanity and the universe.
Topical Outline
Oral sources in African Religion. Types and mode of expression. Significance and function of myths. Significance and function of legends. Significance and function of fables. Significance and functions of names, proverbs, and prayers. Comparison of African Myths, etc., with other religious traditions. Functions as agents of sustainability in contemporary societies.