Definition of Folklore
Folklore refers to the traditional knowledge, customs, stories, and practices shared within a community or culture, often transmitted orally from generation to generation. It encompasses myths, legends, folktales, proverbs, songs, rituals, and material culture like crafts, reflecting the collective experiences and worldview of a group.
Key Components of Folklore
Folklore typically includes narrative elements such as myths (explaining origins or natural phenomena), legends (stories based on historical events with embellishments), and folktales (fictional tales with moral lessons). Non-narrative components involve customs like festivals, dances, and superstitions, all serving to reinforce social norms and cultural continuity.
Practical Examples of Folklore
A classic example is the European folktale 'Cinderella,' which illustrates themes of perseverance and justice through a rags-to-riches narrative adapted across cultures. In Native American traditions, the legend of the Thunderbird explains thunder as the sound of its wings, providing a cultural explanation for natural events and teaching respect for the environment.
Significance of Folklore
Folklore is significant because it preserves cultural heritage, fosters community identity, and transmits values and ethics across generations. It influences modern literature, film, and education, helping societies adapt to change while maintaining historical roots, and promotes empathy by highlighting diverse human experiences.