The role of national legends in the process of shaping the identity of children and teenagers

Abstract

The article contains the results of research on the impact of traditional national legends on social and local identity development of children and teenagers. Thanks to legends, first passed down in oral form, then written, past can be witnessed in the present, and is the cultural heritage of the nation, region, and the city. Legends, in spite of their fairy-like illusion, provide children with answers related to the history of their country, its rulers, national heroes, and strengthen the sense of security, as well as comprise the cultural heritage of a nation. Traditional Polish legends were the subject of numerous changes over the course of years, and on their basis neolegends were created, including urban legends. Encouraging children to read legends and create their own neolegends in forms of narrative and artistic expressions, impels them to carefully observe their region, supports the development of imagination and activates creative processes. Carefully chosen legends, in accordance with a child’s age, not only hold educational values, but also educate by promoting noble values.