ORAL LITERATURE Meaning and
Definition
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Oral literature refers to a vast body of traditional literary expressions that are primarily transmitted orally, rather than through written texts. It encompasses various forms of storytelling, such as myths, legends, folktales, epics, ballads, proverbs, riddles, and songs, among others, that have been passed down orally from generation to generation. This rich and diverse genre of literature serves as an integral part of many cultures around the world, providing insights into their history, values, beliefs, and social structures.
Unlike written literature, oral literature relies on the oral tradition, which involves the spoken word and performance. It is characterized by its dynamic nature, as each storyteller or performer adds their personal touch, improvisations, and adaptations to the existing material, making it a living and evolving art form. This flexibility in delivery allows for a significant degree of interaction between the performer and the audience, fostering a sense of communal participation and shared cultural identity.
Oral literature often serves as a means of entertainment, education, and preservation of cultural knowledge. It serves to teach moral lessons, reinforce societal norms, offer explanations for natural phenomena, and reflect the collective experiences and wisdom of a community. Through oral literature, communities not only transmit their cultural heritage but also instill a sense of pride and continuity, fostering a vital connection to their past.
In recent times, efforts have been made to document and preserve oral literature through recordings, transcriptions, and translations, as the oral tradition faces challenges and potential loss due to the encroachment of modern media and changing cultural practices. However, it remains a vibrant and integral part of many societies, bearing witness to the power and beauty of the spoken word and the diversity of human creativity.
Common Misspellings for ORAL LITERATURE
- iral literature
- kral literature
- lral literature
- pral literature
- 0ral literature
- 9ral literature
- oeal literature
- odal literature
- ofal literature
- otal literature
- o5al literature
- o4al literature
- orzl literature
- orsl literature
- orwl literature
- orql literature
- orak literature
- orap literature
- orao literature
- oral kiterature
Etymology of ORAL LITERATURE
The term "oral literature" is composed of two parts: "oral" and "literature".
The word "oral" is derived from the Latin term "ōrālis", which means "pertaining to the mouth or spoken words". It entered the English language in the 18th century.
The word "literature" has a more complex etymology. It originates from the Latin term "littera", which signifies "letter of the alphabet" or "written communication". In Middle English, "literature" referred to any written work, including religious texts or scholarly writings. Over time, it began to encompass the collective body of artistic and intellectual works written by humans.
Combined, "oral literature" refers to a category of literary works that are transmitted orally through generations rather than being written down.
