How to Read an Indian Folktale
Folktales relate the oral and written narrative traditions of a culture. India has a long and distinguished history of folktale. Indian folktales are diverse, representing the multifaceted history and culture of India and its peoples. There is no single proper way to read an Indian folktale, but certain techniques can enhance your reading of this genre.
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Instructions
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Situate the folktale historically, when possible. Many Indian folktales, even those for which there is no known author, are approximately dated by scholars and historians. Before reading the folktale, analyze the period in which it was written and the cultural, political and social circumstances that may have influenced the narrative. Keep the context in mind as you read the folktale.
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Read for persistent themes. One of the distinguishing features of Indian folktales is the parallel between plots and subplots, which tend to correspond in terms of motif. For instance, the main plot and various subplots may have in common the theme of faithfulness or loyalty. Compare the different threads of the narrative to find persistent themes.
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Distinguish universal elements and culturally specific elements. Indian folktales tend to express universal maxims as well as values and themes particular to the subcontinent. For example, the theme of identity is universal across culture and genre, but the theme of mixed identity may be more localized, as Indian culture has historically incorporated disparate traditions, such as Muslim and Hindu traditions.
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Read the tale twice, once for entertainment and then again for a lesson in morality. Indian folktales are didactic, intending to amuse the audience while also teaching important wisdom and truths. Read the tale for leisure, and then reread it to consider the greater lessons that the story promotes.
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References
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