Introducing Myths and Legends Flashcards
What is a folktale?
A tale, story, belief, or legend passed down orally, often considered false or based on superstition.
Folktales are an important aspect of cultural heritage.
What is the primary purpose of myths?
Helps people understand the world around them.
Myths answer fundamental questions about existence and nature.
What time period do myths typically relate to?
Set in the ‘everywhen’—could take place at any time, often associated with the deep past.
This reflects the timeless nature of myths.
What are the main characteristics of myths?
Fictional, religious in nature, with gods, deities, goddesses, mythical beasts, and fantastical creatures.
Myths often reflect human nature, emotions, and societal norms.
How are myths preserved in cultures?
Shared orally before written language, later recorded in written form as societies developed.
Oral traditions remained essential even after the advent of writing.
What do legends typically focus on?
Heroic figures, historical events, and remarkable deeds.
Legends often blend history with extraordinary elements.
What is a famous example of a legend?
Homer’s Iliad.
It contains mythological figures and a historical core concerning the Trojan War.
What is the nature of legends?
Grounded in truth with some fantastical elements.
Legends evolve to fit cultural contexts.
What type of narratives do fables represent?
Short, didactic narratives featuring animals or inanimate objects.
Fables convey moral lessons about human behavior.
What is a famous example of a fable?
Aesop’s Fables.
Aesop’s Fables are well-known for their moral lessons.
What elements are typically found in fairy tales?
Magical elements and fantastical creatures.
Fairy tales often teach moral lessons through simple motifs.
How do myths differ from legends?
Myths explain natural phenomena and creation; legends focus on heroic deeds and historical events.
Myths are often set in the ‘everywhen’ while legends are tied to specific places or periods.
What impact did written language have on myths?
Myths were recorded in epic poems, religious texts, and historical accounts.
Despite this, oral traditions continued to play a significant role.
Fill in the blank: Myths reflect _______ nature, emotions, values, and societal norms.
human
True or False: Legends are often centered on specific places or periods.
True
What do fairy tales typically teach through their narratives?
Moral lessons through simple motifs.
Common motifs include good vs. evil and the triumph of the underdog.
Fill in the blank: Fables convey moral lessons or truths about _______ behavior.
human
