Read the following narratives (and definitions) and answer briefly the questions below as preparation for a good discussion in class. Suggested length: 250 – 300 words. Please submit on D2L assignment dropbox.
You will find the readings on D2L – they are listed under the author’s name which I refer to in brackets here:
Notorious Characters: Faust, Till Eulenspiegel, Schild Burghers (Dow, 77-82)
Legends: King Watzmann, the Mouse Tower of Bingen (Dow, 111/112)
Folk Tales Retold by B.L. Picard. Heinzelmännchen; the Ratcatcher; (Till Eulenspiegel) (Picard 120-129)
Definitions:
Legends (Dow, 26-28)
Chapbooks (Dow, 73)
1.) What is the point of tales such as Faust, Eulenspiegel and the Schild Burghers? Please offer an explanation using not only the information provided in the commentary but also your own imagination.
2.) Do we have modern renditions of such characters or can you think of contemporary events where similar attitudes or behaviours became apparent?
3.) Are there any morals or teachings in legends such as King Watzmann, the Mouse Tower of Bingen, the Rat catcher, and the Heinzelmännchen? What belief about the world transpires in these stories?