Mythology in Africa

This course examines how mythological narratives shape society’s understanding. Focusing on the Yoruba of West Africa and their resonances in contemporary diaspora culture, we will explore Yoruba orisa such as Osun, Ogun, and Esu, and compare them with deities from the Greek and pre-Christian Scandinavian pantheons, including Odin and Thor. We will also consider how myths are not fixed but rather adaptable narratives that provoke questions in literature. Engaging questions like what roles do myths play in literature? What distinguished a god from a hero? And what connects Beyoncé’s ‘Lemonade’ to ancient narratives? Core readings include Skin of the Sea, Shallow Waters, Children of Blood and Bone, the film Nanny, and Beyoncé’s Lemonade. Students will also engage in philosophical inquiries, for example: if you found Èṣù’s lost dog, would you return it, knowing that he is the patron of contradiction?