Hainteny is a traditional form of Malagasy oral literature and poetry, involving heavy use of metaphor and allusion. It is associated primarily with the Merina people of Madagascar, and in its use of metaphor it resembles the Malay pantun, suggesting the Merina brought a Malayo-Polynesian poetic tradition with them to Madagascar. The Ibonia, an epic poem related for centuries in different versions across Madagascar, reflects the value placed on the linguistic skill celebrated in the hainteny tradition, and offers insight into the diverse mythologies and beliefs of traditional Malagasy communities.
Facts
Place of OriginMadagascar, among the Merina people 1 Defining TraitOral poetry involving heavy use of metaphor 1 Sources
1. Hainteny, Wikipedia
Introduction
It is associated primarily with the Merina people of Madagascar.
Introduction [defining-trait]
a traditional form of Malagasy oral literature and poetry, involving heavy use of metaphor
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