Understanding Folklore Genres
Listen carefully to the following passage:
Today, we will discuss the intriguing concept of folklore in different cultures. Folklore encapsulates the stories, traditions, and beliefs of a community, often handed down through generations. An important aspect of folklore is its relationship with culture; it serves to reinforce group identity and evoke a sense of belonging. The speaker highlights three main genres of folklore: myths, legends, and folktales. Myths are sacred tales that explain the origins of the world and its inhabitants, often involving deities. Legends, while also narrating significant events, typically emphasize historical figures and the truths behind their feats. Lastly, folktales are more light-hearted or entertaining stories that often contain moral lessons. The speaker explains that these genres can vary greatly across cultures, shaped by local customs and historical contexts.
Note: This question has been adapted from its original format to accommodate a reading-based version. In the official TOEFL exam, speaking and listening sections require verbal responses and audio prompts, which are not represented here. Please note that this adaptation may not fully reflect the nature or difficulty of the official exam. The audio feature for these sections will be available soon.