Oral tradition has been a part of our culture since centuries. Folk tales have been passed from generation to generation. These old tales entertain and fascinate audiences, but they also provide a window to the values, beliefs, and history of certain societies. As civilizations evolved, these tales were adapted and rewritten to reflect changing times without losing the essence of the original.
The fact that folk tales often include moral lessons and messages relevant to human behaviour and social norms is fascinating. These stories are a way to guide individuals in making ethical decisions and navigating life’s challenges. The tale of “The Tortoise and the Hare”, teaches us the value of persistence and perseverance, while the tale of “Cinderella”, emphasizes the strength of kindness and resiliency in the face adversity.
Moreover, folk tales are not limited to moral lessons. They often include elements such as mystery, magic and the supernatural. These fantastical aspects serve to capture the audience’s imagination and transport them to a magical world. These tales are made more memorable and exciting by the presence of mythical beings, curses and enchanted items.
Studying folk tales in the context of UPSC’s syllabus can give valuable insight into the cultural and historical context of a region. Students can learn more about a culture by studying its folklore. These stories give a unique view of how people interacted, thought and lived in the past.
Folk tales can also give clues as to the origins certain rituals, customs, and holidays that are still celebrated. Students can learn about the origins of certain customs, rituals, and festivals by examining myths and legends. They will also be able to understand the significance of these practices in a modern context. Diwali is the festival of lights celebrated in India. Its origins are based in the ancient epic Ramayana. This story symbolizes the victory of good over bad.
Studying folk tales can also help develop analytical and critical thinking abilities. Students can develop their analytical abilities by analyzing the symbols, themes, and motifs that appear in folk tales. They will be able to draw connections between stories and identify recurring patterns. This ability is crucial for the UPSC test, as candidates must be able to evaluate and critically analyze a variety of information in order to effectively answer questions.
Folk stories contain a wealth of wisdom, intrigue and historical insights that continue to fascinate audiences all over the world. In order to enrich students’ knowledge and perspective, they can learn more about the social, cultural and historical contexts of societies by decoding the mysteries of old tales. Folk stories are a great way to gain valuable insight and skills for civil service exams.
