Perspectives on East and Southeast Asian Folktales

Perspectives on East and Southeast Asian Folktales is a multidisciplinary examination of folktales from East and Southeast Asian countries, exploring identity, relationships to idioms and narrative structure, morals, collectivism, violence, scatological references, language socialization, representation of Buddhist values, and emotional competence. It highlights differences and similarities between East and Southeast Asian and Western folktales, promoting a memorable understanding of the cultures and oral traditions.

Format: Hardback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 15 September 2022
Publisher: Lexington Books

Perspectives on East and Southeast Asian Folktales is a comprehensive exploration of folktales that may be unfamiliar to Western audiences. By examining tales from countries such as Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Burma, China, Japan, and Korea, the contributors delve into various aspects, including identity concerns, relationships to idioms and narrative structures, morals, collectivism, violence, scatological references, language socialization, representation of Buddhist values, and emotional competence. This volume fosters a memorable understanding of East and Southeast Asian cultures and their oral traditions by highlighting the differences and similarities between East and Southeast Asian folktales and Western ones.

Introduction:
East and Southeast Asian folktales hold a rich cultural heritage that spans centuries. These tales, passed down through generations, encapsulate the beliefs, values, and traditions of these regions. However, due to geographical and cultural barriers, these folktales may not be as widely known in the Western world. Perspectives on East and Southeast Asian Folktales aims to bridge this gap by providing a multidisciplinary examination of these tales.

Identity Issues:
One of the central themes in East and Southeast Asian folktales is identity. These tales often explore the complexities of cultural identity, including the intersection of ethnicity, religion, and social status. Contributors to this volume examine how folktales reflect and shape the identity of individuals and communities, highlighting the role of folklore in maintaining cultural heritage and promoting social cohesion.

Relationship to Idioms and Narrative Structure:
East and Southeast Asian folktales are deeply intertwined with idioms and narrative structures unique to these regions. Contributors analyze how these idioms and structures contribute to the storytelling process, emphasizing the role of metaphor, symbolism, and narrative patterns in conveying meaning. They also explore how folktales reflect the cultural values and beliefs of the communities they originate from.

Morals:
Folktales serve as a vehicle for imparting moral lessons and values. East and Southeast Asian folktales are no exception, and they often convey messages about honesty, kindness, respect, and resilience. Contributors examine how these moral lessons are conveyed through the characters, themes, and narratives of the tales, highlighting the importance of folklore in shaping moral behavior.

Collectivism:
Collectivism is a prominent feature of East and Southeast Asian cultures. Folktales often emphasize the importance of community, family, and social harmony. Contributors explore how folktales promote collectivism, highlighting the role of storytelling in fostering a sense of belonging and social responsibility.

Violence:
While East and Southeast Asian folktales may depict violence, it is often used as a means to convey a moral lesson or to explore the complexities of human relationships. Contributors examine how violence is portrayed in folktales, exploring its impact on the characters and the broader cultural context.

Scatological References:
Folktales often incorporate humor and satire, and East and Southeast Asian folktales are no exception. Contributors explore how scatological references are used in folktales to convey humor, social commentary, or to challenge societal norms. They also examine how these references reflect the cultural values and beliefs of the communities they originate from.

Language Socialization:
Language is a vital component of cultural identity, and East and Southeast Asian folktales play a significant role in language socialization. Contributors examine how folktales are used to teach language skills, promote language preservation, and facilitate language learning. They also explore how folktales reflect the linguistic diversity of the regions they originate from.

Representation of Buddhist Values:
Buddhism is a major religion in East and Southeast Asia, and its values are often reflected in folktales. Contributors explore how folktales convey Buddhist principles, such as compassion, mindfulness, and non-violence. They also examine how folktales contribute to the spiritual and moral development of individuals and communities.

Emotional Competence:
Emotional competence is a crucial aspect of human development, and East and Southeast Asian folktales play a role in promoting emotional well-being. Contributors examine how folktales teach emotional skills, such as empathy, resilience, and self-awareness. They also explore how folktales promote emotional resilience in individuals facing challenges and adversity.

Conclusion:
Perspectives on East and Southeast Asian Folktales offers a comprehensive exploration of these tales, providing valuable insights into the cultural, social, and psychological aspects of these regions. By examining folktales from different countries and cultures, this volume fosters a memorable understanding of East and Southeast Asian cultures and their oral traditions. As we continue to engage with these tales, we can appreciate the diversity and richness of these cultures and gain a deeper appreciation for the importance of folklore in shaping our world.

Weight: 458g
Dimension: 236 x 158 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781666912883