Question

What is the purpose of the elephant masks in the Bamileke culture?

1) To symbolize political power
2) To impose economic prohibitions
3) To organize hunting parties
4) To support village elders

Answer 1

Elephant masks in Bamileke culture are used to symbolize political power and strength, similar to how royal masks in other cultures signify control and status. Option 1.

Step-by-step explanation:

The elephant masks in Bamileke culture hold a significant place in the ceremonial traditions. While the question refers to Bamileke culture, the broader context of masks in various cultures shows that they often symbolize important cultural values such as political power, spiritual mediation, and ancestral reverence.

In the Bamileke context, such masks are typically associated with royalty and elite status, symbolizing the political power and strength of the wearer, akin to how the king of Benin would use the leopard mask to display his control over a wild and powerful animal.

Thus, the closest answer to the student's question would be option 1) To symbolize political power.