Integrative Values of Folktales: Igbo Folktale Example

Abstract

The indigenous language of a people is the most accepted medium of communication. It enshrines and translates the peoples’ life (culture) as domesticated in their norms, values and morals. Adopting the functional perspective to sociological studies, this paper aims at x-raying the values of folktales (Igbo Folktale), for the formation of well behaved, self- reliable, accommodating, responsible and responsive individuals for progress and harmonious communal existence. These virtues which form the bases for training in the society are encapsulated in the people’s folktales shared commonly at family and communal leisure times. Folktale as a genre of oral literature is built into written literature courses in schools. However, modernity, development and quest for greener pasture deny people of the opportunity to enjoy the leisure for cultural learning / training avenues. Schools are no longer performing the expected role. Hence, these cultural virtues are left hanging in the balance. This study therefore tends to illustrate the rich availability of the virtues necessary for national integration with the analysis of three Igbo folktales. Deductions from these folktales confirm the richness of societal values. It concludes by underlining the need for the reintroduction of indigenous language study and folktale in schools