Myth, Legend, and Folklore Study Guide

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What is the primary basis of legends, and how does this contrast with myths and folklore?

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Legends are often based on historical events or figures, though often embellished. This contrasts with myths, which typically explain natural phenomena or origins, and folklore, which serves as entertainment and social commentary.

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How do the characters in folklore typically differ from those in myths?

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Folklore often features characters that are common people or anthropomorphic animals, while myths are more likely to feature gods, goddesses, or other supernatural beings with significant powers. The characters in legends often feature actual historic figures or warriors.

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What role does entertainment play in folklore, and how does this compare to its role in myths?

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Entertainment is a key function of folklore, often used to teach social values and provide amusement. Myths are not typically considered as entertainment but as a way to explain natural phenomena or origins, or to impart morals or lessons.

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Provide an example of how historical facts might be altered in legends and explain why this alteration occurs.

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Historical facts in legends might be twisted to encourage good and moral conduct. This alteration serves to create a narrative that reinforces social values and inspires the audience, even if it sacrifices strict historical accuracy.

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How does oral tradition affect the transmission and evolution of folklore?

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Oral tradition allows folklore to evolve over time, adapting to the changing needs and values of the community. Stories are retold and modified, incorporating new elements and perspectives while maintaining the core message.

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In the Brothers Grimm version of Cinderella, what detail is included that Disney omitted, and why is this significant?

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The Brothers Grimm version includes the stepsisters mutilating their feet to fit into the slipper, a violent detail omitted by Disney. This omission reflects Disney's goal of creating a sanitized, family-friendly version focused on romance.

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Why is the setting in myths considered to be a primordial or sacred place?

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The setting in myths is typically a primordial or sacred time and place to emphasize their separation from ordinary human experience and to underscore their divine or supernatural origins.

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Explain how the absence of a specific author impacts the nature and evolution of both myths and folklore.

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The absence of a specific author allows myths and folklore to be collectively owned and shaped by the community. This communal authorship contributes to their adaptability and their ability to reflect evolving cultural values.

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How do myths serve to establish or reinforce a culture's identity?

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Myths often explain the origins of a culture's beliefs, customs, and social structures. By providing a shared understanding of the past, myths help to create a sense of collective identity and belonging.

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What function do beasts and spirits commonly play in folklore?

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Beasts and spirits in folklore often serve as symbols or metaphors for human characteristics and emotions, or as agents of reward and punishment. They help to illustrate moral lessons and provide entertainment by embodying the fears and aspirations of the community.