| dc.description.abstract | Ateso folktales are a rich and diverse collection of oral literature that have been passed down through generations in the Iteso community of Uganda. These folktales serve as a means of transmitting cultural knowledge and values to future generations, and as such, they play an important role in shaping the cultural identity and worldview of the Iteso people. One of the central features of Ateso folktales is the representation of children, who are depicted in a variety of roles and situations.
This research project examines the representation of children in Ateso folktales through a thematic analysis of a sample of folktales collected from community members. The study aims to identify the ways in which children are portrayed in these narratives and the messages that are conveyed through their representation. The analysis draws on theoretical frameworks from folklore studies, children's literature, and cultural anthropology to analyze the language, themes, and cultural values embedded in the folktales.
The research questions include: What roles do children play in Ateso folktales? How are children depicted in terms of gender, age, and social status? What cultural values and beliefs are reflected in the representation of children? By answering these questions, the study aims to contribute to a broader understanding of the cultural construction of childhood in Iteso society and the ways in which folklore serves as a site for the transmission of cultural knowledge and values.
The analysis reveals that children are depicted in a variety of roles in Ateso folktales, including as protagonists, helpers, and learners. The narratives often emphasize the importance of obedience, respect for elders, and moral virtues such as honesty and bravery. Gender differences are evident in the representation of children, with boys and girls often assigned different roles and responsibilities. For example, girls are often depicted as responsible for domestic tasks such as cooking and cleaning, while boys are portrayed as hunters and protectors of the community.
The study also highlights the ways in which Ateso folktales reflect the cultural values and beliefs of the community, including the importance of community cohesion, respect for tradition, and the role of elders as sources of wisdom and guidance. The representation of children in Ateso folktales, therefore, serves as a means of transmitting cultural knowledge and values to future generations.
The findings of this study have practical implications for promoting positive values and behaviors among children and youth. By identifying positive representations of children in Ateso folktales, the study can inform efforts to develop more inclusive and empowering narratives that reflect the experiences of all members of society, including children. The study also highlights the potential of Ateso folktales as a resource for promoting positive values and behaviors among children and youth. By using folktales as a tool for education and socialization, communities can help to promote positive values and behaviors among children and youth, and contribute to the overall well-being of the community. | en_US |
