Mythopoeia
(Myth Creation)
This term popularized by JRR Tolkien, designates the art of creating myths and imaginary worlds with their own stories, divinities and legends. In Africa, this genre takes unique forms, drawing inspiration from the continent's rich oral and cultural traditions.
What is Mythopoeia?
Mythopoeia is the art of mythmaking, a practice that transcends simple stories to build entire worlds, complete with their own cosmogonies, divine pantheons and epic tales. This genre aims to imitate or reproduce mythological processes by inventing stories that could be perceived as authentic legends within their fictional universes. In Africa, mythmaking draws on ancestral traditions, reinterpreting and reinventing stories to reflect contemporary realities or to offer new perspectives.
Main themes of the Mythopoeia
Creation and Cosmogony
Mythopoeia stories often explore the origins of the universe, Earth, and humanity. They describe gods and primordial entities and the conflicts that shaped the world.
Deities and Pantheons
Authors create pantheons of gods and goddesses, each with their own domains, powers, and histories. These deities are often anthropomorphic and reflect aspects of nature or abstract concepts.
Heroes and Epics
Mythical heroes undertake epic quests, often against evil forces or to complete sacred missions. Their adventures are metaphors for human struggles and aspirations.
Symbolism and Morality
The myths created carry deep symbolism and convey moral lessons. They reflect the cultural values and philosophical beliefs of the society that produces them.
Cultural influence and impact
The creation of myths in Africa allows us to reinvent and revitalize ancient traditions, adapting them to contemporary contexts. These stories provide ways to understand and critique the modern world, while honoring the cultural riches of the past. They provide a platform for the exploration of identity, spirituality and society, while providing captivating stories that inspire and fascinate .
Emblematic works of Mythopoeia in Africa
by Tomi Adeyemi
This novel follows Zélie, a young girl with magical powers, in her quest to restore magic to the kingdom of Orïsha. Adeyemi creates a universe rich in mythology, inspired by Yoruba deities and African traditions.
by Namina Forna
In this story, Deka discovers her powers and her connection to ancient deities in a world where women like her are persecuted. Forna weaves a complex myth around resilience and feminine divinity.
by Marlon James
Marlon James blends African myths with epic storytelling to create a world where the lines between the real and the supernatural are blurred. The novel explores themes of power, memory and the quest for identity.
