Living Folklore, 2nd Edition
An Introduction to the Study of People and Their Traditions
By Martha Sims and Martine Stephens
Utah State University Press
Living Folklore is a comprehensive, straightforward introduction to folklore as it is lived, shared and practiced in contemporary settings. Drawing on examples from diverse American groups and experiences, this text gives the student a strong foundation—from the field's history and major terms to theories and interpretive approaches.
Living Folklore moves beyond genres and classifications, and encourages students who are new to the field to see the study of folklore as a unique approach to understanding people, communities, and day-to-day artistic communication.
This revised edition incorporates new examples, research, and theory along with added discussion of digital and online folklore.
A student-oriented entry to the study of folklore . . . Rich with examples from the field and the class-room . . . Helps students to see that folklore is really about understanding people.' —Jacqueline S. Thursby, Journal of American Folklore
Students are going to love this book: the examples will stimulate their interest in other cultures, and the approaches to the study of folklore will open up new meanings in their own lives.
The authors draw upon their extensive teaching experience and in-depth scholarly research to produce a textbook that sets a new standard for introductory folklore courses. —Patrick B. Mullen