The epic of Sundiata is told by the griot (narrator and keeper of history) Djeli Mamadou Kouyaté. It begins with the details of Sundiata's ancestors, as the force of history is important in the tale of the man whose victory will create the Mali Empire. (page xxiv) “I teach kings the history of their ancestors, so that the lives of the ancients might serve as an example to them, for the world is old, but the future springs from the past.” Griot Djeli Mamadou Kouyaté, p. 1The role of the griot in Sundiata and DT Niane's epic of old Mali is to protect the king. "The griots are men of their words, and with the word we give life to the gestures of kings. But words are nothing more than words; power lies in deeds. Be a man of action; answer me no more with your mouth, but tomorrow , in the Krina plain, show me what you will make me tell future generations “Balla Fasséké, p. 63The griot, Djeli Mamadou Kouyaté, briefly introduces his ancestors and says that the Kouyaté have always served the Keita princes of Mali. He describes theirs tasks such as hiding ancient secrets, commemorating the names and deeds of great kings, and preserving "the memory of humanity". (pg xxiv The words of the Griot Mamadou Kouyate) The role of the griot in this book is to serve the king. Griots are very important to African culture; they are the keepers of tradition and have the responsibility of making sure that things are done according to the customs of their ancestors . Their father teaches each griot, the knowledge griots possess is remembered through songs and stories and is passed on with astonishing accuracy. (pg xxiv)This system would not work well if it were...... middle of paper ......and as an army commander devising strategies to defeat larger armies. His courage is reflected in his tendency to rush into battle himself, killing enemies left and right with little regard for his own safety. His sense of justice is reflected in the way he forgives the sins of others (within reason), and the description of his rule is fair. His charisma unites people; during his exile, everyone he meets is impressed by him, and thus later joins his empire. His mercy helps him defeat Soumaoro, as, once Sundiata discovers the extent of Soumaoro's sorcery, he is willing to admit that he needs the help of spirits and magic to win. And finally, his legendary strength makes him a hero worth remembering. Balla Fasséké tells him to be a "man of action" so that his deeds will be remembered, and Sundiata certainly lives up to his destiny.