Folklore-based value profile of the Slovak culture: use of folktales in cultural studies

Abstract

The article describes the use of folktales in courses on intercultural communication. It is based on the idea that globalisation has made intercultural competence a highly needed competence. Students can benefit from studying in courses focused on theories about culture and their application in practice. Folktales are an excellent source of texts originally transmitted in oral tradition through history. They reflect the values and practices of the cultural community. The heroes/heroines represent the ideal patterns of behaviour while the villains are their opposites. Analysing these stories, the students can learn a lot not only about their own culture but others as well. We provide a list of possible tasks that help them understand the various layers of cultures and implement their knowledge of theory in a practical way. Whether practising in seminars, doing home assignments, or proving their understanding in tests, folktales provide an enjoyable and effective mode of learning.