The difference between folk stories and myths and legends

The so-called myth refers to a single event or story that describes the primitive period of mankind, that is, the early stage of human evolution; Moreover, the inheritors must believe these events and stories, and scholars distinguish between myths and legends, myths and folk stories according to this definition. Myth must meet the following conditions at the same time.

First, it must be a story of early human evolution. According to this definition, it would be wrong if we regard the deaths of Marilyn Monroe and Princess Diana as myths. Because they are "legends" at best, not "myths". In fact, if we look at such a message in English, we should use "legend" to express it instead of "myth" to define it. Take Japan as an example. The reservoir dug by Master Hon Hai (an empty sea monk) or the place where he once stopped can only be regarded as a "legend" explaining the deeds of great men, and we will not regard it as a "myth".

Second, myth must be a single event. According to this definition, those "folk stories" that begin with "Once upon a time, once upon a time …" cannot be regarded as "myths". General folk stories, usually without a specific place, a specific time, no specific characters and story content, may appear repeatedly. But the myth is different. A myth must be a story about a specific person (or Buddha) with a specific place and time (even if neither is clear).

Third, the inheritors of myths must believe what they say. According to this definition, many so-called myths of modern people are not myths at all. Those stories are about gods who have no believers at all. Strictly speaking, such a story should not be called a myth.

Legend is one of the earliest oral narrative literature. A story that evolved from myth but has certain historical significance.

Speaking, it can also be said that it is circulating, and it is not certain. Example: The village says that someone in their family has made meritorious service. I wonder which of his brothers is a hero.

An oral description of a person handed down by the people. Example: The Legend of Luban.

Before the invention of writing, people could only record history through word of mouth, which is the origin of legend. So legends are usually untraceable, and the events described are in the distant past before the invention of words.

Folk story is a kind of narrative story with a wide range of topics, which has been passed down orally by people since ancient times. They tell a certain relationship between people in the form of strange language and symbols. Folk stories, like all excellent creations, are based on life itself, but they are not limited to the actual situation and what people think is true and reasonable. They often contain supernatural and whimsical elements. After repeated publicity, folk stories have been adapted into various scripts to express people's good wishes.

Liang Zhu, Legend of the White Snake, Meng Jiangnu and Cowherd and Weaver Girl are called the four ancient legends of China. Among them, the legend of butterfly lovers is the most brilliant oral inheritance art in China, and it is also the only Chinese folk literature and art with extensive influence in the world. The story of Liang Zhu has been circulated among the people for more than 1,460 years. It can be said that China is a household name with far-reaching spread. It is known as the eternal swan song of love and Romeo and Juliet in the East.