The Difference Between Mythological Stories and Folktales

Although both mythological stories and folktales belong to the category of oral literature, there are several major differences between them:

1. Content: mythological stories usually focus on sacred or supernatural themes such as gods, heroes, myths and legends, and the content of their stories is often related to religious beliefs. For example, the gods and heroes in Greek mythology, such as Zeus, Hera, Poseidon and Apollo, are closely related to the fate of mankind and the workings of the world. Folktales, on the other hand, are more concerned with the daily life of ordinary people, natural phenomena, good fortune and bad luck, etc. For example, the folktale Twenty-four Seasons describes the emergence and development of farming culture, and the folktale Cowherd and Weaving Maiden tells the love story of ordinary people.

2. Form: Myths often use exaggerated, mysterious, and supernatural techniques in the form of telling, giving non-human characters a human nature, as well as a certain sense of sacredness and ritual. For example, in many myths, deities can be depicted as having human personalities and emotions, while at the same time possessing powers and lifespans beyond those of humans. Folktales, on the other hand, pay more attention to the coherence of the storyline, characterization, and the pursuit of life-like and popular expressions.

3. Mode of transmission: Mythological stories are usually a form of expression of religious beliefs, so the mode of its transmission is often closely related to religious ceremonies, myths and legends. For example, many mythological stories are told in religious festivals or ceremonies to enhance their sanctity and authority. Folktales, on the other hand, are usually passed on through oral transmission, folklore performances, etc. For example, in many rural areas of China, the elderly will tell folktales to the young to pass on culture and wisdom.

4. Status: In some cultures, mythological stories have a high status and are often regarded as sacred and inviolable. For example, Greek mythology has a very high status in Western culture and is considered one of the sources of Western culture. In contrast, folktales are the life wisdom and cultural heritage of ordinary people, and their status is more mundane. However, this does not mean that the value of folktales has been neglected. It is also an oral literature in the form of prose with fictional content created and disseminated by the laboring people, and it is the common name for all folk prose works.

In summary, myths and folktales are an important part of human culture, but there are significant differences in their content, form, mode of transmission, and status.