The World of Kelefaa Saane in the Kaabu Kingdom
The Epic of Kelefaa Saane is a popular oral performance that celebrates the Mandinka cultural hero of the same name. It recounts the life and exploits of the legendary warrior prince of Kaabu, and unfolds what it means to be Mandinka. A standard of the griot repertoire, the epic is customarily taught to young performers at the beginning their careers. In a monograph forthcoming from Indiana University Press, Professor Sana Camara has translated this powerful work into English for the first time, based on a masterful recitation of the work by Sirifo Camara in Dakar in 1987. The story of Kelefaa's extraordinary prowess and virtue is one of the founding myths that have established the political, social, moral, and theological foundations of the Mandinka people. This beautiful and engaging performance provides a unique perspective on the intellectual and literary heritage of West Africa.