Now that you have a good idea of the sort of things folklorists study, I hope you are starting to notice folklore all around you. For your final short analysis, your assignment is to apply your observation and interpretation abilities to watching television and movies. Here is what you do:
Watch a movie or television show-at least thirty minutes long, preferably longer. The show can be anything you choose, but it must be a fictional narrative. That is, it should not be a documentary, a reality show, a cooking show, a talk show, a news show, etc. It must be a narrative that tells a story of some sort.
While watching, take note of one form of folklore. This can be something very minor, such as a particular gesture or a traditional joke. Or it can be something more complex, such as the portrayal of a ritual or festival or folk belief.
Your analysis should be 250 words (about two paragraphs long):
In the first paragraph, clearly state what movie or show you watched and when (give details of the title, etc.). Then describe the item of folklore that you observed and the context in which it was presented.
In your second paragraph, answer the following questions about the way folklore was used in the story: What was the purpose of the folklore? How did it contribute to the plot? How did it contribute to your understanding of the characters? Why do you think this particular item of folklore was used in this way? What messages are conveyed? These are short simple questions, but try to think about them deeply and present your answers as fully as possible. Don't let yourself off easy-push yourself to answer the question why?
Work Cited
LastName, FirstName, dir. Title of Movie. Production Company, Date. Film.
For Example:
Lucas, George, dir. Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope. Twentieth Century Fox, 1977. Film.