This archive offers a selection of myths and legends found in different Asian cultures. Myths and legends are generally passed from one generation to the next. The resources included here endeavor to keep this practice alive. These materials are intended for use in 5-12 classrooms. Some of the materials are better-suited to students in high school; however, all material may be adapted - as each teacher sees fit.
Stories from great-grandparents to grandparents to parents to children – that’s oral history! Facts, half-truths (hyperbole for the literary-minded), old wives’ tales and tall tales. From these stories, myths and legends are born. How many of us – if we grew up in a family environment – have not been subjected to stories about creatures who would punish us if we didn’t follow instructions? For example:
Included here, in the Sample Unit, is a lesson plan which allows students to conduct oral history interviews with a parent, or other chosen adult. The students will ask their interviewees to share one of the stories they remember being told, as children, in an attempt to make them obedient. Did it work?
- “The Boogeyman will get you, if you don’t behave!” (United States)
- The Boogeyman, by any other name, is still the same creature - Ông Ba Bị. (Vietnam)
- “If you don’t behave, the Cuco will get you and eat you!” (Latin America)
- Don’t wander around outside, at night, a spirit might enter your body and make you sick!
- If you don’t go inside, at night, when you are supposed to, Kapre – a hairy giant – might jump from the
Included here, in the Sample Unit, is a lesson plan which allows students to conduct oral history interviews with a parent, or other chosen adult. The students will ask their interviewees to share one of the stories they remember being told, as children, in an attempt to make them obedient. Did it work?
Key Questions
What purpose do myths serve?
Why are oral histories important?
Concepts and Key Terms
Myth: a story based on tradition or legend, which has a deep symbolic meaning.
Legend: a semi-true story, which has been passed from person-to-person and has
important meaning or symbolism for the culture in which it originates.
Symbolism: the art or practice of using symbols.
Oral History: historical information, usually tape-recorded or videotaped, obtained in
interviews with persons having firsthand knowledge.
What purpose do myths serve?
Why are oral histories important?
Concepts and Key Terms
Myth: a story based on tradition or legend, which has a deep symbolic meaning.
Legend: a semi-true story, which has been passed from person-to-person and has
important meaning or symbolism for the culture in which it originates.
Symbolism: the art or practice of using symbols.
Oral History: historical information, usually tape-recorded or videotaped, obtained in
interviews with persons having firsthand knowledge.