1. Traditional Culture:
* Folklore is the collective body of knowledge, beliefs, customs, and traditions passed down through generations within a particular culture. This includes everything from myths and legends to songs and dances, recipes, and even superstitions.
* It's the shared cultural memory of a community, often transmitted orally and through everyday practice.
2. Study of Tradition:
* Folklore is also a field of academic study. It examines the origin, development, transmission, and meaning of these traditional practices.
* Folklorists study the stories, songs, dances, beliefs, and material culture of different cultures to understand how they reflect the values, experiences, and history of those communities.
3. Beyond the Boundaries:
* Folklore isn't just about the past. It's also about how traditional elements are adapted and reinvented in the present. Modern forms of storytelling, music, and even memes can be considered forms of folklore.
* It's a constantly evolving and dynamic aspect of human culture.
Some Key Aspects of Folklore:
* Oral Transmission: Folklore often spreads through word of mouth, storytelling, and performance.
* Anonymity: Many folklore elements are attributed to anonymous creators, reflecting the collective nature of the tradition.
* Variability: Folklore often exists in different versions and interpretations, adapting to different contexts and times.
* Belief and Function: Folklore often reflects beliefs about the world, nature, and human nature, and it often serves practical functions like explaining natural phenomena or guiding social behavior.
Examples of Folklore:
* Folk tales: Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, etc.
* Folk songs: "Amazing Grace," "The Wellerman," etc.
* Folk dances: Square dancing, polka, etc.
* Proverbs and sayings: "A stitch in time saves nine," "Early to bed and early to rise..."
* Superstitions: Walking under a ladder brings bad luck, etc.
Understanding folklore helps us appreciate the richness and diversity of human culture, gain insights into past societies, and connect with shared traditions.