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Overview
Mai-Nassara is also called Mijin Mazza or Man of Men, with functions compared to Essiyako’s. The performance carries a spear through three circuits, then stops before the drummers. One hand is put on the opposite side of the breast while the figure bows slightly; the other hand then repeats the action. After clapping, he imitates other bori before sneezing and going.
The song praises arm amulets, diligence and the charms of youth, calls him Man of Men and a breaker of horses, and describes a beard like a he-goat’s. The beard comparison is a represented feature in the praise rather than evidence that he becomes a goat. His particular salute, mimicry and amulets distinguish the short notice from the general spear movements shared with several neighboring spirits.
Origins & earliest records
A. J. N. Tremearne combines interviews and descriptions of bori performances with comparative interpretation. These selected notices do not consistently name individual speakers; printed attributes are distinguished from his conjectures.
Records & interpretation
Complete selected notice in chapter XXVII, printed pp. 381; complete chapter read.
Selected bibliography
Documented works and useful reading. This is not a list of every appearance.
- 01
The Ban of the Bori: Demons and Demon-Dancing in West and North Africa
Chapter XXVII, printed pp. 381; complete spirit notice and ritual representation.
Family & connections
A source-supported family tree or inspiration record has not yet been compiled for this profile. Related reading below indicates a connection in subject matter, not a proven lineage or creative influence.
References
Sources supporting this profile. Linked pages have their own scope and editorial standards.
- Digitized historical ethnographic accountTremearne — Mai-NassaraResearch access: 2026-10-05
Image credits
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