Introduction

Abstract

Mythology and fairytales are a wide field of representation. African oral literature was more and more conceptualized and recorded in the last years, by authors from many African countries. It brings an overview of our common unconscious, giving shape to traditional aspects of our lives. It also explains the symbolism of some traditions. This introduction is a presentation of the iconic feminine archetypes of African mythology such as Mami Wata, Ndjeddo Dewal, Caraweelo, among others. The author describes how she will relay to these figures to describe the idea of ancient matriarchy and the ravage in the mother–daughter relationship. Research in psychoanalysis have brought explanations, elaborated conceptual keys to address this problematic. This introduction provides a plan of the different sections covered in this book.