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In literature, sleep is rarely portrayed simply as a means of replenishing one’s body, rather it is described as a powerful, magical force capable of transforming beings and the physical world around them. Full of enchantment, these early tales strive to explain the mysteries surrounding sleep and dreams in the absence of scientific understanding. In fact, it wasn’t until 1953, when researchers Eugene Aserinsky and Nathaniel Klietman discovered the occurrence of REMs, or rapid eye movements, during sleep that the long held secrets of the human sleep cycle were finally revealed. Our fascination with sleep has led to the creation of several folktales over the centuries highlighting this topic. Folktales are traditional stories that were originally passed down orally long before being recorded in writing. Generally anonymous, folktales are based on the concerns and beliefs of ordinary people and the world in which they live. Due to the continual popularity of this genre, many folktales are repeatedly rewritten and updated to reflect our modern views and to maintain relevance with today’s reading public. Analyzing various folktales about sleep from around the world will be the focus of this project.

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As a literary anthropologist for a local museum, you have been given the responsibility of searching the globe for folktales to include in an upcoming exhibit on sleep. Using the interactive map, you will select stories from three different countries to review. Upon completion of your literary travels, you will be asked to report your findings to the museum board, also known as your class, before your exhibit receives final approval.

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1. Using the interactive map link provided, MAP, select three folktales from different countries to read for this project.

2. After reading each book, complete a written summary for each folktale on your passport. Be sure to include the book title, author, and country of origin. Each summary should also include the main idea of the story in addition to any relevant supporting details.

3. After you have filled out your passport, complete the open – ended response questions on the sheet provided. Explain your answers fully by providing evidence from the text.

4. Complete the personal reflection sheet.

5. Finally, present your selected folktales to the class using any media approved by your teacher.

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        MAP

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You will be evaluated based on the following:

1. Your ability to select and analyze three folktales

2. The completed passport

3. Open-ended response questions

4. Presentation of folktales to the class

5. Completed personal reflection

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Upon completion of this project, you will have gained an understanding of various folktales about sleep. In addition, you will be aware of the origins of these tales and gain new appreciation and insight into the creation of these enchanted stories that still provide entertainment to readers today.

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UTHSCSA Teacher Enrichment Initiatives
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