The video depicts how tradition is important in the ever-changing lives where the world seems to be in constant turmoil. Traditions bring coherence, stability, familiarity, and predictability to people’s lives (BBC). They provide one with a sense of belonging, safety, and security. Traditions provide hope and entertainment while also allowing us to stay grounded and focused on the important things in life. Traditions matter because they help people achieve the “Four Bs”: benevolence, believing, being, and belonging.
Every country and culture on Earth has its own set of traditions. A tradition is a symbolic or distinct belief, principle, custom, or behavior that members of a particular group or society pass down from generation to generation. Tradition is an important part of any culture because it often serves as the glue that binds a community or family. Even though there are variations of specific traditions from one individual to the other and culture to culture, the concept of tradition is undeniably important throughout the world.
In the video, George delivers a speech poem about an African work of art, a Benin bronze plaque, in the Africa Gallery of the British Museum. As part of our Huge History Lesson, George took on the challenges of researching and being inspired by the museum object. George’s poetry was inspired by the bronzes of Benin, a collection of Benin court plaques that first arrived in Europe during the 15th century’s contact with West Africa (The British Museum). Tradition brings generations together, strengthens group bonds, and makes people feel like they are part of something special. They provide comfort and security, particularly in times of great change and sadness. They teach people values and assist in the transmission of their cultural or religious heritage.
Works Cited
BBC. “Western reactions to Benin bronzes | Civilisations – BBC Two,” YouTube, 2018.
The British Museum. “George the Poet – The Benin bronze,” YouTube, 2015.