Morality

Definition

Morality refers to the principles and values that govern the distinction between right and wrong or good and bad behavior. It plays a crucial role in oral narratives, influencing the characters' actions, decisions, and the lessons conveyed through myths, legends, and folktales.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Oral narratives often reflect the moral values of the culture they originate from, showcasing what is considered right or wrong within that society.
2. Myths frequently include divine characters whose moral decisions impact humanity, teaching listeners about ethical behavior through their actions.
3. Legends may serve as cautionary tales, warning audiences about the consequences of immoral actions or reinforcing societal norms.
4. Folktales often feature moral lessons at their conclusion, encouraging audiences to adopt specific values or behaviors in their lives.
5. The morality depicted in oral narratives can vary significantly across different cultures, demonstrating how diverse societies interpret concepts of good and evil.

Review Questions

• How do oral narratives use morality to convey cultural values?
  • Oral narratives utilize morality to reflect and reinforce the cultural values of a society. By presenting characters who embody or reject certain moral principles, these stories teach audiences about acceptable behavior within their community. For instance, a hero's virtuous actions may exemplify moral ideals like honesty and bravery, while a villain's immoral choices highlight behaviors to avoid. This process helps transmit cultural values across generations.
• In what ways do myths serve as tools for teaching morality in a culture?
  • Myths often serve as foundational stories that embody the moral framework of a culture. Through divine characters who face moral dilemmas, these narratives explore complex ethical issues and their implications for humanity. For example, a myth might illustrate the consequences of hubris through a tragic downfall, effectively communicating the importance of humility and respect for the divine order. This method allows myths to engage audiences while instilling valuable lessons about morality.
• Evaluate the role of folktales in shaping individual morality and societal ethics within communities.
  • Folktales play a vital role in shaping individual morality and societal ethics by providing accessible narratives that convey moral lessons. These stories often feature relatable characters and situations that resonate with audiences, making the morals easier to digest and remember. As listeners engage with folktales over time, they internalize the values presented, influencing their personal beliefs and behaviors. Additionally, as these tales are shared within communities, they help establish a collective understanding of ethics that reinforces social cohesion and cultural identity.

Related terms

Ethics: A branch of philosophy that involves systematizing, defending, and recommending concepts of right and wrong behavior.

Allegory:

A narrative in which characters and events symbolize deeper moral or spiritual meanings, often used to teach moral lessons.

Cultural Values: The core principles and ideals upon which an entire community exists, shaping the morality expressed in narratives.