Unit 5: Introduction to Folk Literature

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Full list of words from this list:

words only definitions & notes
  1. folklore
    the unwritten stories and proverbs and songs of a culture
    Folk literature, or folklore, refers to a body of cultural knowledge and beliefs passed from one generation to the next, both orally and in writing.
  2. myth
    a traditional story serving to explain a world view
    Myths are traditional stories, rooted in particular cultures, that deal with gods and other supernatural beings as well as with human heroes.
  3. legend
    a story about mythical or supernatural beings or events
    Legends are stories with roots in the distant past, often based on real events or characters from older times.
  4. folktale
    a traditional story or legend circulated by word of mouth
    Folk tales are brief stories passed by word of mouth from generation to generation.
  5. tall tale
    an improbable (unusual or incredible or fanciful) story
    Tall tales are also folk tales. Tall tales are often lighthearted or humorous and contain highly exaggerated, unrealistic elements.
  6. epic
    a long narrative poem telling of a hero's deeds
    An epic is a long story, often told in verse, involving heroes and gods.
  7. parable
    a short moral story
    Parables are very brief stories told to teach a moral lesson.
  8. fable
    a short moral story
    Fables are brief stories, often with animal characters, also told to express a moral.
  9. folk song
    a song that is traditionally sung by the common people of a region and forms part of their culture
    Folk songs are traditional or composed songs typically made up of stanzas, a refrain, and a simple melody.
  10. spiritual
    religious song originated by African-Americans in the South
    Spirituals are religious songs from the African-American folk tradition.
Created on Tue Mar 02 10:48:11 EST 2021 (updated Wed Mar 10 09:34:26 EST 2021)

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