How Education and Oral Literature Interact

Throughout history, education and oral literature have been deeply intertwined, each influencing and building upon the other. While the delivery methods have evolved over time, the core relationship between them remains remarkably consistent. In this article, we will explore this dynamic interaction through the lens of oral literature's impact on education, and vice versa.

Introduction: The Role of Oral Literature in Education

Education used to be more straightforward and less overengineered, as it was in my schooldays 50 years ago. However, the integration of oral literature into the educational curriculum continues to play a crucial role in fostering both cultural heritage and educational content. This article will delve into the examples and interactions between education and oral literature, drawing from historical and contemporary perspectives.

Education Serve Oral Literature - A Bird's Eye View

Let me share two simple diagrams to provide a bird's eye view of the relationship between education and oral literature. These diagrams are cleansed versions of notes from 15 years ago, specifically designed to illustrate the interplay between these two educational pillars. Here are some insights into how this relationship functions, using the Finnish epic poem Kalevala as an example.

Diagrams and Illustrations

The diagrams provide a visual representation of the interaction. They show how oral literature serves education by enriching content with cultural anecdotes, practical knowledge, and historical context. Conversely, education helps preserve and disseminate oral literature, ensuring its longevity and accessibility.

The Kalevala: An Example of Oral Literature and Education

The Kalevala, a great Finnish epic poem, serves as an excellent example to illustrate how education and oral literature interact. Elias Lonnrot, a Finnish Finn, collected a vast array of folk stories and performances. He then edited and combined these stories to create a coherent whole. This process not only enhanced the literary value of the Kalevala but also embedded it with valuable ethnographic and enculturative information.

The Kalevala blends material from Finnish and Uralic folklore and mythology with practical life stories, making it a valuable resource for anthropologists and a meaningful educational tool for children.

Translating the Kalevala:

The translation of the Kalevala into various languages, including English, exemplifies the challenge and necessity of balancing cultural preservation with educational value. Some English translations closely follow the Finnish content couplet by couplet, while others strive to maintain the poetic style, sometimes deviating from the original content to preserve the alliterative poetry and consistent meter.

Education as a Function of Oral Literature

Oral literature serves several functions within the educational context. It:

Enculturates: Oral literature provides cultural context and values, which helps learners understand and engage with their heritage. Educates: It imparts practical knowledge and skills, making it a valuable educational resource. Informs: Oral literature is a rich source of historical and cultural information, offering insights into the past and present.

By integrating oral literature into the curriculum, education can ensure that cultural heritage is not only preserved but also actively taught and learned.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the relationship between education and oral literature is multifaceted and enduring. From the Finnish Kalevala to various translations and adaptations, this interaction continues to enrich both fields. Whether it be through literacy, practical knowledge, or cultural preservation, the integration of oral literature into education remains a vital and ongoing process.

Feel free to use the diagrams provided for personal or commercial use. If you have commercial intentions, please notify me via Quora messaging. I am happy to share this knowledge and resources with you.