La mythification de l’Afrique par quelques auteurs anciens.

Abstract

Ancient writers have left posterity a wealth of varied information about Africa. They were very interested in the people with whom they came into contact. They described them and their activities. Through their writings, we can learn about the different ethnic groups, the colour of their skin, their economic activities, their diet, their social organisation and their way of life. While showing these various aspects of people and their lives, some of these authors have clearly expressed their perceptions of them. However, this is not the case for Africa itself. Admittedly, the authors have described the physical geography of Africa, but they have not revealed their ideas about Africa. The aim of this article is therefore to reveal, through a study of the texts, the visions that ancient authors held of the continent and which engendered those of their fellow citizens.