Preserving Traditional Ghanaian Folklore through Storytelling

Authors

  • Felicia Asamoah-Poku

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.59573/emsj.8(2).2024.26

Keywords:

Folklore, Storytelling, Myths, Legends, Supernatural

Abstract

This study examines the role of storytelling in preserving traditional Ghanaian folklore, considering its significance in cultural continuity and identity formation. Ghana boasts a rich tapestry of oral traditions, comprising myths, legends, proverbs, and folktales that have been passed down through generations. However, in the face of modernization and globalization, these indigenous narratives face the risk of being marginalized or forgotten. Through qualitative analysis and literature review, this paper explores how storytelling serves as a vital mechanism for the transmission and preservation of Ghanaian folklore. It investigates the cultural, social, and educational implications of storytelling practices within Ghanaian communities, highlighting their capacity to instill values, foster intergenerational bonds, and reinforce cultural pride. Moreover, the study investigates contemporary initiatives aimed at revitalizing traditional storytelling methods, such as community storytelling events, educational programs, and digital media platforms. By recognizing the intrinsic value of storytelling in safeguarding Ghana's cultural heritage, this research underscores the importance of ongoing efforts to ensure the continued vitality and relevance of Ghanaian folklore in the modern era.

References

Addo, K. A. (2021). Exploring the Use of Social Media for Promoting Ghanaian Folklore: A Case Study of Instagram. African Journal of Information Systems, 13(2), 32-45.

Adomako, A. (2019). The Role of Oral Tradition in Preserving Ghanaian Cultural Heritage. Journal of African Cultural Studies, 31(1), 91-103.

Agyare, E., & Agyemang, K. O. (2018). Integrating storytelling into the school curriculum for cultural literacy: A case study of selected primary schools in Ghana. International Journal of Education, Arts, and Science, 5(4), 168-174.

Aidoo, R. A. (2016). The role of oral literature in the preservation of Ghanaian culture: A study of some selected oral genres. Journal of Literature, Languages and Linguistics, 24, 60-68

Amoako, I. O., et al. (2018). Challenges and Prospects of Preserving Ghanaian Folklore in the Digital Age. Journal of African Folklore, 35(2), 87-102.

Appiah-Kubi, E. (2019). Digital storytelling and cultural preservation: Exploring the potential of digital media in preserving Ghanaian folklore. Journal of African Cultural Studies, 32(2), 213-227.

Asante, R. A., & Obeng, P. (2019). Language shift and the preservation of oral traditions in Ghana: A case study of Akan storytelling. Journal of African Languages and Linguistics, 40(2), 123-136.

Boateng, A., & Osei, Y. A. (2020). Strategies for revitalizing storytelling in Ghanaian communities: Lessons from grassroots initiatives. Journal of Community Development Practice, 17(1), 78-92.

Cavalli-Sforza, L. L., & Feldman, M. W. (1981). Cultural transmission and evolution: A quantitative approach. Princeton University Press.

Goody, J. (1977). The Domestication of the Savage Mind. Cambridge University Press.

Mensah, A. A. (2018). Promoting social cohesion through storytelling: A case study of community storytelling events in Ghana. Journal of Community Development, 25(3), 41-53.

Mensah, E. A. (2020). The Social Significance of Storytelling in Ghanaian Communities: A Case Study of Ashanti Region. Journal of African Studies and Development, 12(3), 56-70.

Ong, W. J. (1982). Orality and Literacy: The Technologizing of the Word. Routledge.

Owusu-Ansah, J. K. (2017). Storytelling as a vehicle for community development: The case of Akan communities in Ghana. International Journal of Research in Humanities, Arts, and Literature, 5(4), 7-15.

Owusu-Ansah, J. K. (2017). Storytelling as Community Engagement: Exploring the Role of Oral Tradition in Ghanaian Society. International Journal of Communication, 11, 3751-3766.

Quaye, E. K. (2021). Strengthening cultural heritage preservation through storytelling: A case study of community-based initiatives in Ghana. Journal of Heritage Studies, 8(2), 134-147.

Downloads

Published

2024-05-15

Issue

Section

Articles