This course examines the cross-cultural motifs associated with myths, folklore, and traditional tales from around the world. Students will explore a variety of theoretical perspectives on the cultural meanings and functions of myth, including insights from anthropology, sociology and psychology. The course will guide students in interpreting and experiencing folklore through both traditional methods and modern media. Students will have opportunities to engage in projects that may include collecting oral histories, creating digital archives, and producing multimedia presentations. These activities will help students understand the significance of folklore in cultural expression and preservation, while also developing practical skills in digital storytelling. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Elective)
Course Outcomes
- Explain how folklore shapes national, regional, and ethnic identities.
- Describe the role folklore plays in the expression and preservation of culture.
- Identify/interpret examples of various folk genres such as myth, legend and folktales.
- Identify recurring themes and motifs found in folklore and traditional tales as well as the function(s) of nature myths, creation myths, pourquoi (why) tales, wonder tales, and animal tales.
- Explain why the examination of folklore is so vitally important in ethnographic studies.
- Develop practical skills and methodology in storytelling, including the use of digital tools for collecting, archiving, and presenting oral histories and traditional stories.
- Construct their own folklore or mythic tale using key concepts of anthropology and ethnography.