Introduction: The Human-Animal Relationship in Belief Narratives
Introduction: The Human-Animal Relationship in Belief Narratives

Summary/Abstract: Since time immemorial, humans have lived in a mutual relationship with animals, and have, indeed, been dependent on them, that is, their help with domestic work, protection, the food and clothing they provide. The close link between animals and humans throughout history has been reflected in various forms of expressive culture such as ritual, dance, religious practices, art, and so forth, as well as in material culture and other everyday practices. Folklore around the world also reflects the close interrelation between humans and animals in various ways. In cosmogonic myths, animals are sometimes ascribed the role of the creators of the universe; in tales of magic they often figure as supernatural helpers to heroes and heroines on their journey towards a happy ending; they can mimic and mock human characters in animal tales; animals are sometimes addressed with requests in incantations, etc. This issue of Folklore: Electronic Journal of Folklore therefore features seven papers that were presented at the BNN conference in Ragusa. They approach the topic of human-animal relationships from very different perspectives and angles, and within various genres of folklore.

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