Norwegian Folklore

In this class, students will listen to and analyze Norwegian folklore in the form of folk tales, fairy tales, and mythology. We will identify the following in each story: the setting, the archetypal characters & situations, the plot, themes, the conflict, motifs, and more. We will learn about the elements to look for when deciding if a story is a folk tale, a fairy tale, or something else. Students will begin to see emerging patterns and characteristics in these various stories that span several cultures and time periods. This process will help students to build literary analysis skills and also develop their ability to make connections between works of literature.

I will start each class by asking students if they have any prior knowledge of the stories to be featured that day. I will then ask students to share the titles of some folk tales or fairy tales they have read, and we will use these to make connections to the tales we read during class meetings. We will read each story aloud and then identify and discuss the various characteristics and literary elements we notice in each tale.

Here is the schedule of tales we will cover:
Week 1: The Princess Who Wanted to Play With the Stars; The Three Aunts
Week 2: Jonas and the Boggart; Cinderlad and the Troll
Week 3: Gudbrand on the Hillside; The Three Bushy Billy Goats

I will use slides to guide our discussions. I encourage student participation and will frequently give students opportunities to share their thoughts and ask questions. 

No prior knowledge is needed for this class.