Amharic Funeral Dirges in Ethiopia: A Thematic Analysis of Funeral Dirges in West Gojjam

Oral literature has been used as an instrument through which society passes down its rich experience of life from one generation to the other. In particular, oral poetry has been a means for expressing people?s innermost and intense feelings, beliefs and reactions to a certain physical and social event. Despite this, the prevalence of oral poetry in general and funeral dirges in particular is gradually decreasing. More to the point, the study and documentation of funeral dirges has not been given the attention it deserves by scholars in the social sciences. Thus, this book aims to provide the collection, classification, and analysis of Amharic funeral dirges in Ethiopia. Through funeral dirges, as it is pointed out in the book, the society expresses its thoughts about the deceased, death, God, socio-political issues, and its other reactions to bereavement. In the book, we find some surprising comments made against God and political powers.This book is important for those who are interested in African folklore and literature. Sociologists, psychologists, and historians who are involved in African and Ethiopian studies may also find useful.