The Art of Storytelling; How Narratives Shapes Cultural and Society.

 The Art of Storytelling; How Narratives Shapes Cultural and Society. 

Our lives as we've known it are a reflections of what we've seen and heard.

Every decisions we take or didn't take are as a result of what we learnt happened to someone who did/didn't do them.

Our mode of dressing, pattern of thinking, way of communicating are shaped by what we were told and how we were made to see where we were coming from.

Religious people are shaped by the narratives and instructions from the Bible,Quran or other Religious books available. 

They've seen it as the modus operandi and how they should live their lives.

In the same vein, Narratives from the past retold by someone in the present can/has contributed to the manner at which we live in the society. 

This could be tagged as Storytelling. 

Storytelling itself, is the art or act of giving account of incidents or events, or a statement regarding the facts pertinent to a situation in question.

If you ask a secondary school student to give you an account of the Nigeria Civil War in 1967, you'll be surprised to see them mention the events; coup de tat,military mutunies, Aburi Accord, Declaration of the Republic of Biafra up till the Surrender oath by Bassey Effiong.

Now recall that, they never lived in that era but a storyteller has helped informed them in ways that have instilled a national occurrence that can't be forgotten. 

The same applies to the famous stories of our gods;Sango,Amadioha,Ogun,Osun,Etc.

Storytelling plays a crucial role in shaping the narratives of Nigerian culture and society by preserving and transmitting traditions, values, and shared experiences. 

Through oral traditions, folktales, and contemporary storytelling mediums, it fosters a sense of identity and community. It can challenge stereotypes, address social issues, and provide a platform for diverse voices, contributing to a more nuanced understanding of Nigerian culture and society.

Till date, I still think the Osun river is a goddess without doubting its factuality.

Stories have helped to shape a mental make-believe especially the ones that teaches morals and values for a tribe or set of people. 

Some storytelling tools are musicals,Drums and choruses.

Storytelling is a powerful tool that influences the narratives of Nigerian culture and society in several ways:

Preservation of Heritage

 Traditional stories and folktales pass down cultural heritage from generation to generation, preserving customs, beliefs, and historical events.

The Woman King by Violet Davis and John Boyega gave us the opportunity to enjoy cultural knowledge of the infamous Agojie Women Warrior of Dahomey Empire and their tales, others include 

-Sometimes in April 

-Hotel Rwanda 

-Sarafina 

-Long Walk to Freedom 

-Blood Diamond 

-Black November; Saro Wiwa and the Ogoni Eight. 

Etc

Transmission of Values

 Moral lessons embedded in stories convey cultural values, ethical principles, and societal norms, helping to instill these values in individuals and reinforce social cohesion.

One reason we still cherish our culture is as a result of storytelling from those who have witnessed it.

You'll ask yourself why the Osun people don't joke with the Osun Osogbo festival, the Oramiyan Staff or the Ooni himself, it is because of the emphasis laid on them. 

Identity Formation

 Narratives, especially those featuring cultural heroes and significant events, contribute to the formation of individual and collective identities, fostering a sense of belonging and pride in one's cultural roots.

It is easy to locate you're from a particular tribe with the tales you have been told. Little wonders why blacks in diaspora easily find solace in saying they're from Africa, as a result of the slave trade stories being told. 

Social Commentary

 Storytelling often serves as a platform for social commentary, allowing storytellers to address contemporary issues, challenge societal norms, and promote dialogue about change.

Diverse Perspectives

 Through storytelling, diverse voices and perspectives within Nigerian society can be highlighted, providing a more inclusive representation of the nation's rich cultural tapestry.

Resilience and Empowerment

 Narratives of overcoming challenges, resilience, and triumph in the face of adversity inspire individuals and communities, fostering a sense of empowerment and hope for the future.

Educational Tool

 Storytelling is an effective educational tool, facilitating the transmission of knowledge, history, and cultural practices in an engaging and memorable way.

Cultural Continuity and Adaptation

  While preserving tradition, storytelling also allows for cultural adaptation, enabling societies to incorporate new ideas, technologies, and social changes while maintaining a connection to their roots.

Entertainment and Unity

 Storytelling, whether through traditional oral storytelling, literature, or contemporary media, serves as a source of entertainment that can bring people together, fostering a shared cultural experience.

If you watch Tales by Moonlight on NTA  you'll relate.

In essence, storytelling in the context of Nigerian culture and society is a dynamic and multifaceted process that both reflects and shapes the collective identity, values, and aspirations of the people. It is a means through which the rich tapestry of Nigeria's cultural diversity is woven into a cohesive narrative that evolves over time.

WRITTEN BY:

Ukah Ebube Glory. 

OS/23B/3889