Folktales as a Resource in Social Studies: Possibilities and Pitfalls Using Examples from Denmark

Abstract

Folktales can be a useful resource in social studies lessons that teach cultural themes by using children's literature. However, with their origins in past oral traditions, folktales may present misleading information about current cultural practices and may perpetuate stereotypes. The author examines this problem by using the example of Danish folktales and offers strategies for determining the cultural relevance of folktales from other countries.

Keywords:

• children's literature
• cultural themes
• folktales
• social studies