Which reason best explains why “The Beginnings of the Maasai” can be classified as a myth?

Which reason best explains why “The Beginnings of the Maasai” can be classified as a myth?

A. It has fantastic features that help to explain the reason for the Maasai’s traditions.

B. It has supernatural features that help to explain the volcanic eruption in the Maasai’s home

C. It has supernatural features that help to explain the conflict with the Maasai’s cattle

D. It has fantastic features that help to explain the purpose of the Maasai’s weather

Answer: A. It has fantastic features that help to explain the reason for the Maasai’s traditions.

‘The Beginnings of the Maasai’ can be referred to as a myth as its plot largely utilizes the elements of the fabulous and supernatural to give the account of the Maasai ethnogenesis and the description of their way of life. They are traditional fables that are believed to be an account of the phenomenon that took place in the world, creation myths, legends about gods and superhuman heroes and are indicative of cultural themes. These festivals are very important in the maintenance of cultural integrity and the transfer of appropriate culture from one generation to the other.

Some of the likely aspects that one may consider making the Maasai myth extraordinary may entail elements such as exceptional occurrences or characters which are out of this world. These wonderful aspects are meant to give explanations for this or that concern of Maasai for instance, their nomadic, pastoral life, their connection with cattle and many other rites or customs. For instance, the myth might tell how a god granted the Maasai the cattle, which would justify the Maasai people’s profound bond with these animals. It could also tell how some religious or social practices were developed by heroes from the elders’ times or by some spirits, which makes these practices holy.

These fantastic elements make the myth interesting and engage the audience besides making them proud of their culture, Association with their forefathers and the continuity of their history. It enables the Maasai people to have a common history and it provides them with a reference point in life. The fact that the workings of culture are portrayed as having been influenced by supernatural or mythical factors is an important criterion that differentiates myths from other sorts of tales, which makes option A the most suitable to use to categorize “The Beginnings of the Maasai” as myths.