Introduction+to+Folklore


 * __ Introduction to Folklore __**

What is Folklore?

folk·lore
// noun // 1. the traditional beliefs, legends, customs, etc., of a people; lore of a people. 2. the study of such lore. 3. a body of widely held but false or unsubstantiated beliefs. Origin: 1846; [|folk] + [|lore]; coined by English scholar and antiquary William John Thoms (1803–85) (Source: dictionary.com)

**Folklore** usually refers to the traditional beliefs, myths, tales, and practices of a people. These stories have been passed down informally, usually by word of mouth.

A **folktale** is a story or legend that possesses the following characteristics:
 * passed down from one generation to the next
 * take on characteristics of the setting in which they are told and sometimes the of the storyteller
 * include universal themes
 * try to make sense of our existence, help humans cope with their world, or explain the origin of something
 * often they are about common people
 * may have supernatural elements
 * function to validate certain aspects of culture

A **myth** is a traditional, ancient story that deals supernatural beings, ancestors, or heroes that serves to account for the origins of something, explain aspects of the natural world, or share the customs and ideals of a society. Often the main characters are gods or demo-gods and the story may have some religious background.

A **legend** is a traditional tale that has been handed down through the generations. It is believed to have a historical basis and be semi-true. It has an important meaning for the culture from which it originates.

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Here are some more links to help you learn about folklore: American Folklore Society Folklore Definitions University of Illinois Myths and Legends

Image Source: http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/21/updated-folklore-gallery-and-new-details-to-up-the-hype/