essay

Zande Kings and Princes

Essays in social anthropology • London • Published In 1962 • Pages: 87-116

By: Evans-Pritchard, E. E. (Edward Evan).

Abstract

This article is rich in its descriptive detail and depth of characterization of several notable Azande kings and princes famous in 19th century pre-colonial Azande history. The data are derived mostly from primary historical accounts and from oral traditions which Evans-Pritchard collected in the course of his field work with the Azande. Rather extensive biographical sketches are presented of some of the more prominent kings, and briefer information on numerous less well known members of the royalty. The objective is to delineate the personality, character, conduct, and manners of Azande rulers. A fairly consistent picture emerges from the historical sources, which correlates well with the author's impression of the present-day ruling class. Most Azande kings and princes were characterized by a 'natural dignity of bearing, unostentatious pride, distinguished air, courteous manners, cordiality, self-assurance, composure, reserve, reflectiveness, and generosity, and … intelligence and calm, sound judgment, firmness, astuteness, and prudence' (p. 116). Nineteenth-century authors only rarely report a ruler as being cruel or brutal, arrogant, harsh or rude, and so forth.

HRAF PubDate

1999

Region

Africa

Sub Region

Central Africa

Document Type

essay

Evaluation

Creator Type

Social Anthropologist

Document Rating

4: Excellent Secondary Data

5: Excellent Primary Data

Analyst

Gilbert Winer ; Robert O. Lagacé ; 1968-1969

Field Date

1926-1930

Coverage Date

ca. 1865-ca.1905

Coverage Place

Sudan

Notes

E. E. Evans-Pritchard

This article was originally published in the Anthropological Quarterly, 1957

Includes bibliographical references

LCSH

Zande (African people)