The field of folklore recently celebrated a
significant anniversary. 200 years ago the Brothers Grimm published their
first compilation of traditional folk and fairy tales.
Professionally, the Grimms contributed greatly to folk studies being recognized
as a scholarly discipline. Culturally however, the global impact is still
notable today. In celebration of this 200 year milestone the The Weber State University Storytelling
Festival is currently being held in Ogden Ohio. Although
this is the 16th anniversary of the festival, the Brothers Grimm are
of primary focus this year.
Tales from the dark side: Brothers Grimmin spotlight at Weber State University Storytelling Festival offers
some background information on these two influential men. It is
interesting to note the cultural role these compilations played in
the time before German unification. Logistically,
the Grimms provided Germans access to a written medium that familiarized the
country with a universal language. This connection also helped to create a
shared cultural history among the isolated German states. The reoccurring
themes in folktales prove to be a powerful tool in establishing commonality
among the global community.
Almost every culture
has integrated folktales into the lives of their children. As the original audience
was adults, great debate is heard about the dark and mature content being described
to kids. Rosemary Conover, an anthropology professor at Weber State University
notes that the daunting material "really
probe[s] back into those ghoulish themes that seem to be at times so very
jarring and surprising, that are much more like the Celtic and Germanic tribal
stories". As the reader, we must contextualize our folktales as being from
a time when young children were expected to contribute as adults. In the last
few decades there has been a shift in parenting styles. Adults are more prone
to shelter their children, hoping to preserve their innocence rather than
encouraging early adulthood. Although there is merit to this, the traditional
goals of these tales must be considered. Exposure to death and other hardships
helped prepare children for the challenges of life. It is imperative that we do
not hide these stories from our kids, as it could be dangerous to their coping
skills as adults. Folklore is an ancient tradition that has been used as a tool
of cultural conditioning. The goal was for children to learn these lessons and
go on to become both productive and adaptive members of society.
It is
inspiring to see that Weber State University is committed to honoring the art
of folklore. The schedule reflects seminars and readings for people of all ages
to enjoy. In honor of the Brothers Grimm, may we all show appreciation by continuing
to retell these important tales.
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| The German version of the first collection of fairytales published by the Brothers Grimm Children's and Household Tales (1812) |
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