Rooney Wisniewski's Sundiata Response

I found this story delightful in a way that only children’s books are. It was fast-paced, it didn’t dwell on details, it was colorful and easy to understand, there was a clear message, and there was no grey area between good and evil. Sundiata is honourable and pure throughout the entire story, making it clear at the end that he is both the answer to his kingdom’s strife and a perfect king. He never gives up, he allows all to exist in their ~rightful place~, he never displays negative emotion, et cetera.

The griot plays an incredibly important role in this tale, as does Rafiki in Disney’s version. Balla Fasseke is Sundiata’s advocate and friend, encouraging him and speaking on his behalf to the people. Sundiata would not be remotely successful without him- the very first words Sundiata has the ability to speak are “Balla, you are my griot”. The emotional connection between the two is apparant, as Sundiatanever forgets Balla Fasseke and thinks of him often during his period of exile.

I was a little confused by some of the plot developments because they happen extremely quickly- Sumanguru is introduced out of the blue, the long period of exile lasts three paragraphs, and the details of the intense battle read a little like a list. It definitely wasn’t a super exciting wording for a battle scene, leaving the happy ending a little unsatisfying and abrupt. Perhaps I am simply used to the overwhelming action of Marvel movies and not that in orally passed down folk tales, but I was looking for more details!!

Character parallels were more evident the more I considered it. At first read, the story seemed wildly different from Disney’s version, but the general plot line is actually pretty similar. Scar assumed all of the villain roles in one: the council of elders who do not allow Sundiata to ascend to the throne, Sassouma Berete’s fear of Sundiata’s strength, and of course, Samanguru, the sorcerer king. Rafiki takes the place of both griots, and I guess Timone and Pumba are the king of Mema? Perhaps.

How kingly. Though at the end of the Lion King, they do find their own empire…

I love Timone and Pumbaa

One thing I found interesting is that Disney absolutely removed the polygamy/ presentation of Sologon Kedjou and her and the King’s marriage from the movie. This makes sense because that storyline doesn’t fit with western values/ norms of marriage, but they didn’t even try to adapt it they just cut it. Also, there isn’t a narrator - or griot - who speaks directly to the audience in the movie, whereas the beginning of Sundiata definitely feels like someone is talking to you, reminiscent of the oral history of the tale.