The People of the Camels: Human-Animal Relationship in Tuareg Linguistic Worldview

The article deals with the image and concept of camel in the Tuareg language. The analysis is based on discourse, mainly from the early 20th century, devoted to the traditional model of society grounded in nomadism. It shows the importance of camels for Tuareg culture and identity. The position of the camel goes beyond its utilitarian function: it is central to the system of social practices and Tuareg identity. The camel is a friend, a companion in arms, an advisor; the animal looks, knows, makes decisions. The concept of camel reveals a deep human-animal relationship that shapes human roles, sets the goals for the entire community, and determines how people function. Thanks to the symbiotic relationship between people and camels, we can speak not only about “camels of the people” but also “people of the camels”.