The 10 Characteristics Of Legends (with Explanations And Examples)
Legend is one of the most well-known and oldest forms of transmission of stories, and that is why they are part of the cultures of thousands of ethnic groups and nations. Legends have fascinated human societies for centuries. These compelling narratives not only captivate our imaginations but also offer deep insights into the values and beliefs of different cultures. Understanding the characteristics of legends helps us appreciate why certain stories endure through time and how they shape our understanding of history and morality.
Next We will see what the characteristics of the legend are what defines it as a type of narrative belonging to the epic genre, and what is its purpose.
Let’s start with the most basic: the definition of the term “legend.” This is a subgenre of epic (a category in which we also find myths, epics, epic poems, sagas, etc.) in which important events that occurred in the past, which are totally or partially fantastic, are explained through narratives transmitted from generation to generation.
That is to say, in the legends it is very difficult to know which elements of the narrated story really occurred or not, since There is an overlap between real events and characters, on the one hand, and fantastic or supernatural ones for the other.
However, one of the characteristics of legends is that they serve to transmit values and concepts to understand the origins of the social organization of a group (normally considered a nation or ethnicity), so that the veracity of their aspects is not traditionally questioned. more general, since they are used to educate and socially unite.
The main characteristics of the Legends
Now that we have seen a summary of what this epic subgenre is like, let’s go on to see in more detail what the characteristics of the legend are and how it plays an important role in the traditions of human social groups.
1. Fantasy elements
One of the most characteristic features of legends is that in them There are many fantastical elements, including magical events and supernatural entities This is so for two fundamental reasons.
On the one hand, legends are part of the tradition and culture of social groups, and that means that they appeared before the scientific conception of reality was as strong as it is now. Generally speaking, for thousands of years people did not have a way to clearly differentiate between what can happen and what cannot happen according to the natural laws we know today. Therefore, it is very easy for fantastic elements to be added to the story even inadvertently.
On the other hand, and partly as a consequence of the above, when imagining the legends, The priority was not to offer an accurate description of how the world works, but they try to transmit concepts and ideas. In other words, legends obey the logic of the relationships between abstract ideas (loyalty, virtue, fear, anger, etc.) and not the logic of realism.
2. It aims to explain facts from History
Legends, originally, intended to explain things that hypothetically happened in the past and that serve to better understand some aspect of the here and now. We have already seen that a large part of these narratives (or even all of them) did not really occur, so they are usually interpreted with a mixture of credulity in the face of facts for which there is no evidence, on the one hand, and belief that the events of the past that are explained are captured in the legend through metaphors.
In any case, generally today the legends are not seen as a valid source of exact knowledge about the events that occurred but as a cultural reality appreciated precisely for being part of the History of a society regardless of the veracity of its contents.
There are only some very specific cases in which there is debate about whether legends can give clues to real historical events, usually when their origins are very ancient and refer to events that occurred before writing began to be used. For example, the legends of the Hadza tribe.
3. The story takes place in a specific place
At first glance, this feature may seem unremarkable, because ultimately in today’s times we are accustomed to the fact that most of the stories we read or hear have to do with specific characters who perform actions in specific places. However, it must be taken into account that in the epic genre it is very common deal with topics and events of such an abstract nature that we are barely able to imagine where the events occur
For example, in narratives in which the origin of the cosmos or the world is explained from the perspective of myths (a type of narrative known as cosmogonies), it is very common that there is not even an attempt to describe the environment in which the things move. protagonist entities of the story, because these are supernatural in nature and supposedly existed before the concept of space as we understand it today made sense.
However, one of the characteristics of the legend that serves to distinguish it from other epic narratives is that the action does take place in a specific location, regardless of whether the world in which the events occur is fictional or truly exists in our world. cosmos.
4. Very clear use of archetypes
Archetypes are recurring roles embodied by the majority of characters in stories that have spanned the history of humanity.
Carl Jung and followers of his current of thought, such as Joseph Campbell (known above all for his book The Hero with a Thousand Faces), developed this concept to show that the different societies, ethnicities and cultures that have existed use very similar characters to give shapes their myths, legends and narratives in general. Some of these archetypes are the wise old man, the rogue, the child, the hero, etc.
in the legends the archetype of the hero takes on special importance who is the protagonist of the story to be told, and who is used as an example to follow and a model of virtue and honorable and brave behavior.
Thus, legends usually do not contain individuals with very ambiguous morality and full of nuances, but rather the role that each one plays in the story is usually very clear from the moment each one of them is presented in the narrative.
5. Evolution by oral transmission
Legends have existed both before and after the appearance of writing systems, and at all times they have been relatively independent of their capture on pages.
That is to say, its existence is not reduced to the publication, copying and editing of books, but rather legends are passed from one person to another both through reading and through word of mouth and oral tradition. This, in turn, makes it easier for the legend to change over time, or for several different versions to emerge where before there was only one.
6. The characters are human or semi-human
As legends are accessible through all the social substrata of a culture, their characters must have motivations and concerns that are understandable by everyone, and as a consequence the majority of these are human or partially human (psychologically, although their physical appearance can vary greatly). ), so that express the most common ideas and feelings
7. Inclusion of folklore content
The leyends They adopt the symbols and images of local folklore as a framework of reference elements that are easily understood by everyone because they are part of the culture in which they live.
For example, if in telling a legend there comes a point where a demon appears, the listeners will not instantly know that its presence represents danger or, at the very least, caution, and that it will possibly try to harm or deceive the good people included in that story. There will be a tendency not to use elements that are very difficult to understand within this frame of reference (for example, a demon that for no apparent reason has a kinder character than the hero).
8. No metafiction resources
Another characteristic of the legend is that its content is presented as separated from the time and space of the reader or listener, and does not recognize the existence of the audience nor does it appeal to its participation
That is to say, in the Legend of King Arthur, for example, there are no moments in which a character asks questions to the audience, but in any case he asks them to himself or to another character who is part of the narrated events.
9. The closure of the story is clear
Legends tend not to end in open endings, leaving room for many interpretations. In its closing, something happens that makes it clear that the narrative no longer has any further development and if there is any unknown, it is what interpretation we should extract from the legend already told, and not what happened after that ending.
10. The closing is sobering: there is a moral
In most cases, the closing offers a moral interpretation about what actions have been good and what actions have been bad throughout the development of the story. The moral is one of the most important characteristics of the legend, which serves to transmit values and behavioral guidelines even if it is indirectly and without directly appealing to listeners or readers (as we have seen).
Core Characteristics of Legends
Extraordinary Characters
At the heart of every legend are extraordinary characters who often possess superhuman qualities or engage in remarkable feats. These figures, whether heroes or villains, are larger-than-life and serve as symbols of broader human ideals and struggles.
Heroic Journeys
Legends frequently involve heroic journeys where characters embark on epic quests or face daunting challenges. These journeys often symbolize personal growth, bravery, and the pursuit of a noble goal, reflecting the hero’s transformation and triumph.
Moral Lessons
A significant feature of legends is their ability to impart moral lessons. Through the trials and tribulations of their characters, legends teach values such as courage, loyalty, justice, and the importance of virtues. These lessons resonate across generations, providing guidance and inspiration.
Cultural Significance
Legends are deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of societies. They reflect the collective consciousness, values, and traditions of a community. By understanding legends, we gain insight into the cultural and historical contexts that shaped them.
Origins and Historical Context
Historical Foundations
Many legends have historical origins, rooted in real events or figures that have been embellished over time. These stories often begin as accounts of actual people or events before being transformed into grand narratives with mythical elements.
Cultural and Regional Influences
Legends are influenced by the culture and region from which they originate. Different societies adapt and reinterpret these stories based on their unique traditions, beliefs, and historical experiences. This regional variation adds richness and diversity to the body of legends.
Evolution Over Time
As legends are passed down through generations, they often evolve. Changes in storytelling, cultural shifts, and historical developments contribute to the transformation of legends. This evolution helps legends remain relevant and resonate with new audiences.
Common Themes in Legends
The Quest for Honor
A recurring theme in legends is the quest for honor. Characters often undertake perilous journeys to prove their worth or achieve a prestigious goal. This quest reflects the values of bravery, integrity, and the pursuit of excellence.
Battles Between Good and Evil
Legends frequently depict epic battles between good and evil. These conflicts highlight moral dilemmas and the struggle between virtuous and malevolent forces. The resolution of these battles often reinforces the triumph of good over evil.
Transformation and Redemption
Transformation and redemption are common themes in legends, where characters undergo significant personal changes or seek to redeem themselves from past mistakes. These themes explore concepts of growth, forgiveness, and the possibility of renewal.
Supernatural Elements
Supernatural elements, such as magical creatures, divine interventions, and mystical powers, are integral to many legends. These elements add a layer of wonder and mystery, enhancing the story’s appeal and emphasizing the extraordinary nature of the characters and events.
Storytelling Techniques
Use of Symbolism
Legends often employ symbolism to convey deeper meanings and themes. Symbols can represent abstract concepts, moral lessons, or cultural values, enriching the narrative and providing layers of interpretation.
Narrative Structures
Legends typically follow specific narrative structures, such as the hero’s journey or the quest motif. These structures provide a framework for the story, guiding the reader or listener through the plot and enhancing the dramatic impact.
Character Archetypes
Character archetypes, such as the hero, the mentor, the villain, and the sidekick, are common in legends. These archetypes embody universal traits and roles, making the stories relatable and engaging across different cultures.
Famous Legends Across Cultures
King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table
The legend of King Arthur and his knights is a quintessential example of chivalric romance and heroism. It highlights themes of honor, loyalty, and the quest for the Holy Grail, reflecting the values of medieval Britain.
The Odyssey by Homer
Homer’s “Odyssey” is a cornerstone of Greek mythology, chronicling Odysseus’s epic journey home from the Trojan War. It explores themes of perseverance, cunning, and the influence of the gods on human affairs.
The Legend of Mulan
The legend of Mulan, originating from Chinese folklore, tells the story of a young woman who disguises herself as a man to take her ailing father’s place in the army. It embodies themes of bravery, family honor, and gender roles.
Robin Hood
Robin Hood, the legendary outlaw of Sherwood Forest, is known for his fight against injustice and his efforts to redistribute wealth. This legend underscores themes of social justice, resistance against tyranny, and the importance of community.
Legends are more than just captivating stories; they are reflections of cultural values, historical contexts, and universal human experiences. By examining their characteristics, themes, and storytelling techniques, we gain a deeper understanding of why these narratives endure and continue to inspire us. Legends serve as a bridge between the past and the present, offering timeless lessons and connections to our shared humanity.
FAQs about characteristics of legends
What are the core characteristics of legends?
Legends typically feature extraordinary characters, heroic journeys, moral lessons, and significant cultural values. These elements contribute to their enduring appeal and impact.
How do legends reflect cultural and historical contexts?
Legends are shaped by the cultural and historical contexts in which they originate. They often incorporate regional values, beliefs, and historical events, providing insights into the societies that created them.
What are some common themes found in legends?
Common themes in legends include the quest for honor, battles between good and evil, transformation and redemption, and the inclusion of supernatural elements. These themes help convey moral lessons and cultural values.
How do storytelling techniques enhance legends?
Storytelling techniques such as symbolism, narrative structures, and character archetypes enrich legends by adding depth and meaning. These techniques engage audiences and make the stories more relatable and memorable.
Can you provide examples of famous legends from different cultures?
Examples of famous legends include King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table, Homer’s “Odyssey,” the Legend of Mulan, and Robin Hood. Each of these legends highlights unique cultural values and themes.
