Horse Motifs in Folk Narrative of the Supernatural
Date
2014-10-08
Authors
Harkavy, Victoria
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Abstract
This thesis describes the use of horse motifs in folk prose narratives of the supernatural. In the process of researching and writing this thesis, the author conducted close readings of a broad sample of folk prose and poetry and reviewed scholarship in cross-disciplinary comparison. This thesis argues that folklore motifs operate as multivalent forms of language, conveying not only the literal imagery but also the complex social structures and behaviors associated with the image. Motifs that involve horses are alluding to the cultural adaptations built around the domesticated horse. This thesis contributes to the conversation in Folklore Studies on the use of motifs as components of narrative as well as the interaction of text and context.
Description
Keywords
Folklore, Legends, Belief, Hierarchy, Narrative, Horses