Betrayal: A Zarma Folktale

In this episode, I explore the themes of trust, loyalty, and betrayal through a classic African Zarma folktale, from the book -Zarma Folktales of Niger, translated by Amanda Cushman. This is a story I loved as a child, but only now in my early 20s have I come to understand its deeper meaning. Through the interactions between a hunter, an alligator, and a cunning hare, we reflect on how loyalty and betrayal often intertwine in complex ways. I’ll also share my personal analysis and takeaways. Lastly, I invite you to consider the question posed at the end of the tale: Who truly betrayed whom? I’d love to hear your thoughts, so feel free to share them in the comments.