MYTHS AND FOLKTALES
Journal What are some of the difficult aspects of going to a private, Christian school?
Why Read Myths and Folktales? They tell about the beginnings of things. Include marvelous or supernatural events and tell of deeds and adventures of gods and goddesses, heroes, and heroines. Important to modern-day readers because they reveal commons truths, patterns, and themes that are familiar to all ages and cultures. Passed down from generation to generation by word of mouth. Explain the human experience in poetic, imaginative terms. Answers the questions: who we are, where we came from, and what we believe in.
What is a Myth? An anonymous, traditional story that explains a belief, a custom, or a mysterious natural phenomenon. Purposes Explain the creation of the world and the universe Explain the human condition: how and why people were created; why they are flawed; why there is suffering in the world; why people must eventually die; what happens to people after death Explain natural phenomena, such as the setting of the sun and the phases of the moon Explain the nature of gods and goddesses and how these deities and human beings interact Explain the meanings behind religious rituals, customs, and beliefs Explain historical events Teach moral lessons
Differences Between Myths and Folktales As myths were retold over generation, they transformed. Not only details, but purpose. Folktales, unlike myths, are secular, or nonreligious. Folktales were created as much for their entertainment value as for the teaching of social or moral values. Folktales feature magic, transformations, and enchantments, just as myths do; however, although folktales may sometimes include gods or goddesses as characters, they are usually not the CENTRAL characters in the story. Folktale heroes tend to be common, everyday folk who don't have special powers, unlike the heroes of myths, who are the superhuman offspring of gods or goddesses and human parents. Folktales are not associated with religious rituals.
Folktales A story that is created by the “folk”—the common people—and passed along orally from generation to generation. Entertaining stories about ordinary people who survive by luck. Includes legends, fables, tall tales, fairy tales, and ghost stories.
Today’s Texts 1. “How the World Was Made” 2. “The Wooden People” 3. “Coyote and the Origin of Death”
Your Homework Exit Pass—turn in as you leave class today! Complete and turn in the One Pager assignment on Friday, September 6th! Summer Reading Projects are due Friday, September 6th.