article

The path of the leopard: motherhood and majesty in early Danhomé

journal of African history36 (3) • Published In 1995 • Pages: 391-417

By: Blier, Suzanne Preston.

Abstract
This article examines Danhomè (Dahomey) myths of dynastic origin, offering at once a critique and counter-narrative to the official dynastic history. Critical to this counter-narrative are the early women of the state, most importantly the mothers and wives of the first rulers. By reconstructing the provocative stories of these women, the author not only adds an important human dimension to Danhomè history but also raises important methodological issues in existing works on the origins of this kingdom.
Subjects
Traditional history
Historical reconstruction
Cultural identity and pride
Form and rules of government
Chief executive
Mythology
Sacred objects and places
Priesthood
Organized ceremonial
Status, role, and prestige
History
Acculturation and culture contact
culture
Fon
HRAF PubDate
2016
Region
Africa
Sub Region
Western Africa
Document Type
article
Evaluation
Creator Types
Anthropologist
Historian
Document Rating
4: Excellent Secondary Data
5: Excellent Primary Data
Analyst
Teferi Abate Adem
Field Date
1984-1986
Coverage Date
1720-1986
Coverage Place
Dahomey Kingdom (Benin since 1975)
Notes
By Suzanne Preston Blier
Includes bibliographical references
LCCN
63005723
LCSH
Fon (African people)