Izdzīvošanas spēks un dzīves vērtības Liepājas Universitātes folkloras arhīva dzīvesstāstos

Abstract

The folklore materials of the Liepāja University record many life stories of various Latvian narrators. Some of them are more extensive and cover the people’s ability to survive during difficult periods of history. The purpose of the article is to systematize and analyze the main values depicted in the life stories available in the Liepāja folklore archive. These values helped people survive during the changing times of the 20th century and helped them overcome difficult life situations. The article explores stories of personal experiences which indicate an event experienced by the narrator, as well as life stories that talk about the narrator’s life in general. In addition to life stories, the article also analyzes the folklore materials included by the narrators and their included explanations. The study provided a deeper understanding of the narrators’ outlook on life and their value system. In order to locate the topic in the context of folkloristic theory, the author has used the guidelines developed by several recognized researchers in the studies of personal narratives. The life values depicted in the narrated stories recorded in the folklore materials are arranged according to their thematic lines. These are values related to human character and virtues, attitude to life, emotional balance, physical and mental health. The life stories and personal accounts indicate the main values discussed by narrators during the period. Among these are values nurtured in the family – like virtues of work, patience and perseverance, positive outlook to life and inner strength, values on interpersonal relationships – like optimism, gratitude and helpfulness, kindness, love and trust in nature and natural order. Along with these, values of joy, singing and celebrating are also mentioned – as they restore strength and create a balance between work and relaxation. Overall, it is clear that the values and virtues mentioned in the classical folklore sources have been very important in surviving the changing times of the 20th-century Latvian territory.