Nuer Customs and Folk-Lore

Abstract

Miss HUFFMAN has lived for some years among the Nuer, members of the Nilotic group of tribes who are among the less accessible of the Sudanese peoples. Comparatively little is known about them, as they have a preference for their own ways, and, being slow to appreciate the advantages of European civilisation, have been able to preserve their state of reserve and seclusion. The author's thorough acquaintance with their language has enabled her to get closely into touch with them, and in this brief study she has set down much information which, if it does not give a complete account of their culture, is at any rate for the most part new. It is supplemented by an introduction by Dr. Westermann, giving a brief summary of the main features of their culture, which is dominated by their cattle tending and the periodic flooding of their country. The cult of what is apparently a rain deity holds a position of special significance in their beliefs. A number of folk-tales, in which the Nuer language is rich, is included.