Legends
Define a legend in your own words.
Legends are stories that people made up as well. However, legends are about real-life people and what they did. Generally, some of the facts are dramatically altered and the person the legend is about never really did what the story says.
Which of the following stories would most likely be considered a fable?
a) A story about a tortoise who wins a race by being patient
b) A biography of a war hero
c) A ghost story told to scare kids
d) A report on a natural disaster
a) A story about a tortoise who wins a race by being patient
Define oral tradition.
Stories that are told by a people, a tribe, a community, a family that have been handed down from generation to generation.
What are myths?
A traditional story, especially one concerning the early history of a people or explaining some natural or social phenomenon, and typically involving supernatural beings or events.
What age group are fairy tales usually written for?
Why are facts in legends often exaggerated?
To make them more interesting and exciting. Generally, some of the facts are dramatically altered and the person the legend is about never really did what the story says.
What is a fable?
A fable is also a story that is passed down. A fable’s overall purpose is to teach a lesson.
What topics or mysteries did ancient cultures often explore through oral traditions? Give atleast 2.
How to explain the stars, the change in the seasons, or the nature of death – and the mysteries of their lives.
What is the Greek word from which “myth” originates? and what does it mean?
From the Greek word mythos meaning “speech”
Many fairy tales include a moral or lesson. Give one example of a fairy tale and the lesson it teaches.
Cinderella - This fairy tale teaches the lesson that kindness, patience, and goodness of heart are rewarded, while cruelty and selfishness lead to downfall.
Give one example of a famous legend you know.
The Legend of Maria Makiling — A well-known Philippine legend about a guardian spirit who protects Mount Makiling and the surrounding forest, often helping villagers but sometimes punishing those who disrespect nature.
Name a well-known fable (aside from the Tortoise and the Hare) and the lesson it teaches.
The Fox and the Grapes — Teaches the lesson that people often belittle what they cannot have, a concept known as “sour grapes.”
Why are oral traditions important for communities?
Often told by shamans or priests. These stories, songs, and ceremonies, retold and performed over generation. Established a communal mind, a collective authorship by the community.
Name one kind of myth you are familiar with.
The Story of Persephone and Demeter — An ancient Greek myth explaining the changing seasons, where Persephone’s time in the underworld brings winter, and her return to her mother Demeter brings spring and summer.
Name three common elements of a fairy tale.
Stories for children set in an imaginary kingdom.
Fairy tales always have good characters and evil characters.
Often include a magical or supernatural element, such as elves, witches, or special animals.
Characters are often kings, queens, princesses and princes
Most often begin with the phrase “Once upon a time…” and end with “And they lived happily ever after.”