Griots at War

A remarkable account of griot conflict resolution. In 1985, Barbara G. Hoffman, then an apprentice griot, witnessed an extraordinary gathering in Kita, Mali. Thousands of griots convened for four days, celebrating the new Hall of Griots' opening and the Head Griot's installation, marking the end of a two-year war fought with words, reputations, and sorcery. Hoffman captures griots' speeches, songs, and dances, revealing how history, metaphor, religion, proverbs, and praise can heal a divided community. The speeches, sharp yet insightful, unveil griot identity in a caste society and their linguistic prowess in asserting cultural power. This exceptional book, featuring extensive griot speech excerpts in Mande and translation, provides unexpected and significant insights into Mande culture, caste, and identity.