I took a mythology/folktales/fairytales class in college, and this was my thesis. I was just wondering what other people would choose?
2007-02-10 04:34:29 · 5 answers · asked by Britney S 2 in Society & Culture ➔ Mythology & Folklore
Never made a study of the subject, but I've read a lot of stories, so I'm just guessing based on what comes to mind. I'd say (not necessarily in order of frequency) -- (1) The Journey -- Hero or Heroine must go somewhere and return with solution to the problem -- go fetch the magic apple to cure the king, or go persuade the villain to release the rain or whatever. (2) The Test -- Hero or Heroine does something right and is rewarded, usually contrasted with somebody else who failed the test -- feed the beggar who turns out to be an angel in disguise, kiss the beast or ugly woman who turns out to be a prince or princess, and so forth. (3) The Atonement -- Hero or Heroine has accidentally caused a problem, and must then earn a way out of the problem -- seven years drudgery to the angry wind god, payment of the first-born to the witch, etc. -- often this involves being double-crossed at the end of the bargain, and cleverness coming into the just ending.
2007-02-10 06:02:09 · answer #1 · answered by Maria E. 3 · 3⤊ 0⤋
maria e has it spot on... it is not just fairytales, folktales either... most every story/movie/play is written this way from harry potter, to lord of the rings, fight club, starwars, etc... It is described by Joseph Campbell in "Masks of the Gods" as the universalism in mythic storytelling.
2007-02-10 08:08:28 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Contact with Other. Other is beings, places, or situation far outside of the ordinary. Oppression by step-parents. An authority figure with no vested interest taking advantage of and seeking to harm and destroy an innocent.
2007-02-10 04:40:26 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Legends witches warlocks fairies imps Giants demons spirits wizards sleeping princesses handsome princes knomes dragons
strange shaped trees and stones eerie lights and faces in clouds mists and swirls damsels in castles ---- there is so many facets available.
2007-02-10 04:49:17 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
The number 3, a magical thing, and a hero(ine).
2007-02-10 07:17:02 · answer #5 · answered by Firefly 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋