Orature and Yoruba Riddles

Orature and Yoruba Riddles takes readers into the hitherto unexplored undercurrents of riddles in Africa. Because of its oral-and all too often ephemeral-nature, riddles have escaped close scrutiny from scholars. The strength of the Yoruba as the focus of this study is impressive indeed: a major eth [...]
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Orature and Yoruba Riddles takes readers into the hitherto unexplored undercurrents of riddles in Africa. Because of its oral-and all too often ephemeral-nature, riddles have escaped close scrutiny from scholars. The strength of the Yoruba as the focus of this study is impressive indeed: a major ethnic group in Africa, with established connections with the black diaspora in North America and the Caribean; a rich oral and written culture; a large and diverse population; and an integrated rural-urban society. The book is divided into six chapters for readers' convenience. When read in sequence, the book provides a comprehensive, holistic sense of Yoruba creativity where riddles are concerned. At the same time, the book is conceived in a way that each chapter could be read individually. Therefore, those readers seeking understanding of a specific type of riddle may target a single chapter appearing most relevant to her/his curiosity.