Folktales

What is a folktale? a story or legend handed down from generation to generation usually passed down through oral retelling explains something that happens in nature or conveys a certain truth about life

Characteristics of Folktales Simple and straightforward Includes magical or supernatural elements Characters represent human qualities such as good, evil, wisdom, foolishness, etc. Problems and conflicts are clear Ending is usually happy or satisfying Good is usually rewarded; evil is usually punished

Types of Folktales Trickster tales Fables Why “Porquoi” stories Fairy Tales Tall Tales

Trickster Tales One character (protagonist, trickster) is clever or devious Usually causes problems for others in the story Usually goes unpunished Different cultures have different tricksters

Trickster Tales Tricksters from different cultures: North America: coyote, wolf, hare Ireland: fairies, leprechauns Japan: badger Africa: spider, tortoise Europe: fox, wolf

Fables Short stories Teach a lesson or moral Themes: cooperation, differing viewpoints, rewards Some have several layers of meaning; morals may not be obvious Listeners can find their own moral

Fairytales Include good and bad characters Heroes, heroines Magic, fantasy Predictable beginnings and endings; “Once upon a time…”, “And they lived happily ever after.” Problems usually overcome through kindness, courage, or intelligence

Tall Tales Contain many exaggerations Main character is bigger than life or may have superhuman abilities Problem to be solved Plot is funny and impossible Problem is solved by the end

Some well-known folktales… Cinderella The Tortoise and the Hare Jack and the Beanstalk The Three Little Pigs Bre’r Rabbit and Bre’r Fox Hansel and Gretel Aesop’s Fables Johnny Appleseed

Elements of Folktales Theme: a story’s statement about life Characters: people or figures in a story Setting: time and location of a story Plot: action or events of a story Style and Tone: how the story is written

Common Themes in Folktales Heroic qualities (wisdom, bravery, etc) Nature and animals Good vs. evil Power of magic (people, objects, events) Certain numbers (3, 7, etc) Basic values of a culture Kindness, friendship, loyalty

Characterization Usually either very good or very bad Most characteristics are exaggerated The hero and heroine are usually young The heroine is usually fair, kind, charitable, and caring The hero is usually honorable, courageous, unselfish, and caring Both usually have special powers

Setting Place is usually described easily and briefly (humble cottage, magic kingdom, etc.) Fits typical geography of a culture Time is usually in the past, usually “long ago” Time could be “fantasy time” (“Once upon a time”, “Happily ever after”)

Plot Full of action Follows simple, specific pattern Grabs and holds reader’s interest and attention from the beginning Conflicts usually resolved with great acts of kindness and are related to good and/or evil

Style and Tone Descriptions are quick and to the point Story is believable but not probable; makes the reader believe that “maybe, just maybe” the story is based on true events… MAYBE THEY ARE!

Enjoy! For the next several days, we will be studying folktales. We will focus on the specific structure, elements, and themes. As you read, start thinking of ideas for your own folktale! This can be based on an existing story, or can be something unique…be creative!