Folk Tales

Folk Tales

...featuring examples from Disney!

What is a Folk Tale?

• A folktale is a story originating in popular culture, often passed on by word of mouth.

• ​They have many different elements that make them unique, but a lot of these elements are relatively simple... why do you think this is?

Characters

• Usually very simple-minded.

• Easily divided into the good and the bad.

Descriptions

• They don't go into detailed descriptions.

• Often use one word to describe them or their name is their description!

Magicians/Villains

• Magicians and/or Villains are common in folk tales.

• They can either act as the force who pushes the plot forward OR the one who works against the main character for their own benefit.

Jesters/Fools

• There is often, but not always, some kind of side-kick, who is there for comedic relief.

• Sometimes they are responsible for manipulating the plot (often by accident)!

Setting

• The time and place are usually non-descript-- the story may be set in any country or any time period.

• "Once upon time in a land far, far away..."

Plot

• The movement of the plot is usually from powerless to powerful or poverty to wealth.

• Many folk tales are also centered around the main character learning a lesson.

Conflicts

• Folk Tales often have themes that deal with opposites.

• Examples include: good vs. evil, rich vs. poor, wise vs. foolish, age vs. youth, beauty vs, ugliness, fair vs. unfair

Folk Tale vs. Fairy Tale

• 'Folktale' is a general term that can include a wide range of traditional narratives, such as myths, legends, fables and fairy tales. A fairy tale is a traditional folktale involving imaginary creatures such as fairies, wizards, elves, trolls, gnomes, goblins and fire-breathing dragons.

• For example, Rapunzel and Little Red Riding Hood are both folk tales, but only Rapunzel is also a fairy tale.

Snow White in Three Minutes

• On the next slide, the video will show you the gist of the original Snow White and the Seven Dwarves in three minutes.

• As you watch, consider the different aspects that make this story a folk tale! Consider the characters, setting, etc.

Snow White in Three Minutes

• Now that you've seen the video, how does Snow White and the Seven Dwarves fit the characteristics of a folk tale?