What role did a griot play in West African culture?

The role of a griot in West African culture is primarily that of a storyteller. Griots are traditional oral historians, poets, musicians, and storytellers who preserve the history and heritage of their communities through spoken word and performance. They are essential figures in West African societies, as they pass down stories of ancestors, significant historical events, and moral lessons, all of which contribute to the cultural identity of the community.

These individuals often have a deep understanding of the lineage and genealogy of families and can recall important historical narratives that reinforce social values and traditions. Throughout history, griots have been instrumental in maintaining an oral tradition at a time when written records were scarce, serving as a repository of knowledge and culture.

While other roles mentioned in the choices, such as military leader, political advisor, and merchant, have significance in the society, they do not encompass the primary and unique role that griots hold as custodians of oral history, thus making the identification of a griot as a storyteller accurate and crucial to understanding West African cultural dynamics.