There has been a recent resurgence of interest in Africa's past and present. A lack of archeological evidence hinders our ability to piece together many of the earliest myths. However, this has not stopped creators from forging ahead with great content, like MV Media's Ki Khanga or the general Afrofuturism movement. As we journey around the world seeking hidden lore, we find ourselves in ancient Africa. Today, we will explore some of the legends of East and North East Africa including Nubia/Kush and Ethiopia.
One cannot speak of Nubia and Kush(Cush) without mentioning Egypt. Over the centuries, these neighbors have been friends and enemies, with Kush occupying Upper Egypt after the latter's Middle Kingdom fell. However, the cultures mixed and mingled, leading to the Nubians taking many of the Egyptian gods as their own. It is not entirely known what religion was practiced in Kush prior to trading beliefs and gods with their Egyptian neighbors. This may limit access to a unique mythology, but there are still stories here to mine.
How would I use this? A dual monarchy or two kingdoms linked through religion could make for a great campaign setting. In a modern sense, perhaps rival corporations linked through common technology or family. However, I suggest looking to the stars. Imagine two widely varying non human species who have mingled so long their own myths and spirituality are barely distinguishable. Yet they have different cultures, needs, and ways of handling outsiders. Perhaps a story where humans try and hold into their own beliefs in the face of a frenemy group of aliens.
Our second stop today is Ethiopia or Aethopia. It can be difficult at times to know where Nubia and Ethiopia separate as there is a great deal of overlap in the regions. However, a powerful Ethiopian kingdom did rise in the 1st century CE, known as Aksum, bringing a bit more distinction to that part of the world. Ethiopia has a rich oral tradition, some of which can be found in the tales of other cultures and some unique to its own. The stories are full of animals and witches, morality tales and tribal histories, as well as a trove of other, familiar fantastical elements. Such a rich tapestry would reward a system or campaign heavy on storytelling and mythology as mechanics.
How would I use this? Subvert the narrative a bit. This is a powerful and rich culture that may seem primitive on the outside. Once players get involved as either members or outsiders, the true wonders of the society open up. Quests and missions are meaningful life moments, not just quick treasure grabs. The world is changed, made better or worse, by the actions of the players. This can work in any campaign from fantasy to science fiction.
Next time we delve into Central and Western Africa and how some of those mythologies have touched our modern life.
