Convention and Characteristics of Tall Tales

Convention and Characteristics of Tall Tales - The use of Hyperbole: Over described, source of humour The use of Vernacular: Certain dialects and use of words Minute details portray the time in tall tales What is often told in these stories is seemingly impossible; larger than life characters The function of Tall Tales: A way of entertainment- Also help to define a specific regional context in the story (Some Tall Tales can provide inspiration) ● Solidify collective identities ● These stories act as a social safety belt: - Contemporary safety belt: Such as Social Media, protests, exercising/moving (a way of release/outlet of descent) ● Tall Tales are often called “Legends” ● Heroes in tall tales are human beings/ordinary people made extraordinary by certain abilities. Such as the ability to map/track places, hunt, ‘walk without a shadow’ - They consist cultural values of the collective, thus viewed as heroes ** (Not all Tall Tales portray these characteristics)** Tall Tale: Big Fish by Tim Burton: ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● The big fish is the legend of the Big Fish We get the local dialect of Alabama The director creates fading in and out, and the use of lighting for transitions. Often signalling shifts in time. Voice overs shift constantly to fit the narrative, weaning in and out. Early in the firm we associate the ‘Big Fish’ with a metaphor as an uncatchable woman. Also Edward is portrayed as the ‘Big Fish’ These stories are often told episodically, there are little parts connected. - Episodic: Told in so-called episodes (Usually in longer Tall Tales rather than short Tall Tales) Edward’s life is depended on hyperbole, he remarks unrealistic stories, even though they are true, limits his son's ability to believe him. Resulted in uncommunicated conflict. The idea of the spectre story, represents are architectural style that is characteristic of “Small-Town America.” Idea that the community is around the church.