Teaching and Learning About Different Cultures in Elementary School

Anansi the Spider

Issue #115 Education November 28, 2023

Over fifty years ago, I taught 6th grade in a primarily white elementary school. In my class of 27 students, four were African American and one was Native American.

Every year, each classroom in the school was supposed to present a play about a fairy tale or myth.

I always taught ALL my students about ALL of American and world history and ALL civilizations and cultures, so one year I decided that my class would put on a play about Anansi the Spider.

The art teacher was going to teach mask-making anyway, so she helped my students make masks for their characters.

None of my students, parents, or teacher colleagues had ever heard of Anansi.

Fun and a whole lot of learning was had by all.

(I took some of this information from a Facebook Post by the Afrofuturism Group):

Anansi is a prominent figure in Akan mythology, particularly in Ghana and other parts of West Africa. He is often depicted as a spider and is known primarily as a trickster god. His character and stories have played a significant role in West African and Caribbean folklore.

Key Aspects of Anansi:

1. Spider Form: Although Anansi is a god, he is most commonly portrayed as a spider. This unique form allows him to use his wit and cunning to navigate various challenges and adventures.

2. Trickster Nature: Anansi is renowned for his intelligence, cleverness, and skill at trickery. His stories often involve him outsmarting other characters, sometimes for noble reasons, but other times for his gain or amusement.

3. Moral Lessons: Many Anansi tales are used to impart moral lessons. These stories typically involve Anansi getting into trouble due to his mischievous nature, but through cunning and ingenuity, he often finds his way out, teaching important lessons in the process.

4. Cultural Importance: Anansi is more than just a mythological figure; he embodies the spirit of survival and resilience. He represents both the positive and negative aspects of human nature and is a symbol of the ability to turn the tables against larger forces.

5. Oral Tradition: Anansi stories have been passed down through generations orally. They are not just entertainment but also a way to preserve cultural values and wisdom.

6. Global Influence: The character of Anansi has transcended African borders, particularly influencing Caribbean folklore, where he is equally celebrated.

7. Adaptability: Anansi's stories often highlight the importance of using intellect and adaptability to overcome difficulties, reflecting the challenges faced by those who have historically told his tales.

In visual representations, Anansi can be portrayed in various ways, sometimes as a spider with human characteristics or as a man with spider-like qualities. His depiction often emphasizes his clever, cunning nature and his ability to weave webs, both literally and metaphorically.

Have you ever heard of Anansi the Spider?

Are there any similar, little-known fairy tale-type characters in your culture?

Do you think it is important to teach and learn about other cultures and celebrations in today's educational and professional environments?