C076. Baer (p. 90). The Fire Test

This is Chase076.

Types ATU0123 The Wolf and the Kids
Motifs
K0311.3 thief disguises voice and is allowed access
H0221 ordeal by fire
Notes
Harris cites Theal's Demane and Demazana; he calls Cutta Cord-La "most characteristic" of this group.
Thompson also includes Harris's Cunning Snake
Baer comments "This tale is made up of two characteristically African motifs which can, but do not necessarily, occur together: the voice change and the ordeal by fire." ... she notes that just practicing is not the usual way to improve the voice; magic or something drastic is usually required
so she also concludes: "This is a good example of the tendency in American variants of Old World tales to drop the magical or fantastical elements."
for fire-jumping contest in Africa, see notes to Chase017 (Rabbit and Butter)

conclusion: "Regardless of tale type, this particular tale has its close analogues in Africa."