Folktales

Type of Abstract (select): Paper presentation

Abstract (max. 250 words):
We undertook the content analysis of Hungarian folktales compiled in a popular book by Illyés Gyula, titled "Hetvenhét Magyar Népmese" Móra Könyvkiadó, 2015 (1). The thematic analysis was guided by previous research on folktales seeking to identify patterns of altruism, qualities of character, themes of morality, and differing emphasis on male and female physical attractiveness. The purpose was to consider whether the themes of the folktales are relevant to today in helping children develop their moral compass and whether these themes may be viewed as important in today’s culture and merit retelling. The earlier study was inconclusive as we did not find the right codes to adequately capture the content of the collection. We recognized the unique qualities of these stories. Additionally, several sources define Hungarian folktales as belonging to a genre of tales that neither the narrator nor the listener considers the tale to be true. They are based on things that have never happened and are passed on by word of mouth, more like a poem, for amusement and pleasure. We describe several of the more elaborate characteristic openings and endings to illustrate this point. We reflect on the value of retelling folktales in deepening the connection in adult-child relationships.


Brief Professional Bio (max. 100 words):
Klara K Papp