ABSTRACT
The term oral literature has been central to the analysis of the many unwritten forms in Africa that can be regarded as in some way possessing literary qualities. It normally refers to such genres as narratives, myths, epics, lyrics, praise poetry, laments, and the verbal texts of songs; also sometimes to oratory, drama, riddles, proverbs, or word play. Anthropologists, historians, linguists, and literary scholars have interacted with folklorists in the study of these forms (well exemplified in this volume), thus laying the basis for an informed and appreciative analysis of African arts and creativity.
