FOLKLORE

Folklore is unofficial knowledge that people informally learn about the world, cultures, and traditions (Sims and Stephens 2011). This knowledge is shared through words, actions, behaviors, and customs. Folklore is about how people learn traditions, values, and form identity. It involves groups that are connected in some way, and through interactions within this group, the groups’ values, beliefs, and customs are passed on. There are three categories of folklore: verbal, material, and customary. Verbal folklore involves words, material folklore can be touched, seen or eaten, and customary folklore involves customs or behaviors that are repeated. 

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This project on the culinary tradition of tamales will discuss material and customary folklore. The group of focus is Mexicans on both sides of the US and Mexico border. Through a custom of gathering family to prepare tamales, Mexicans pass knowledge about a food tradition to younger generations, strengthen cultural identity within the group, and connect to their past.