Storytelling: A Powerful Responsibility
A story about storytelling, The Canterbury Tales depicts life, class, romance, social castes, gender, morality, and so much more, all in a hilarious, moving way that contextually resonates with readers’ modern sensibilities. Explore the tools of the trade when it comes to storytelling, what happens when stories are left unfinished or misinterpreted and the power of shared empathy in the form of a story.
Articles
Seven Tips for Becoming a Better Storyteller
Human connection brings us so many physical, mental, and emotional well-being benefits. And while there are plenty of ways to connect with one another, one art form stands out: storytelling. Learn the ins and outs of what makes one a great storyteller, that leaves a lasting impression.
Source: Forbes
How Stories Connect And Persuade Us: Unleashing The Brain Power Of Narrative
A vivid, emotional story “can give that extra push to make it feel more real or more important.” If you look at the times somebody’s beliefs have been changed, it’s often because of a story that “hits them in the heart.”
Source: NPR
A seafarer tells young Sir Walter Raleigh and his brother the story of what happened out at sea. The Boyhood of Raleigh by Sir John Everett Millais, , 1870. Public Domain / Wikimedia
Farce: Definition, Examples & Key Traits
With its exaggerated characters and zany antics, it’s clear that farce plays a special role in storytelling. But what exactly is that role, and how does it affect the way we engage with stories?
For a sizeable list of examples of farce on film, look no further than here.
Source: DAISIE
Videos
The Power of Stories
Photojournalist Jenny Adler, audio producer Bill McQuay, photographer Laurel Chor, and illustrator Nirupa Rao discuss what storytelling means to them, and why it is important.
Source: National Geographic
The Danger of a Single Story
Our lives, our cultures, are composed of many overlapping stories. Novelist Chimamanda Adichie tells the story of how she found her authentic cultural voice — and warns that if we hear only a single story about another person or country, we risk a critical misunderstanding.
Source: TED
How to Sound Brilliant
In a talk, professional funny person Will Stephen shows foolproof presentation skills to make you sound brilliant — even if you are literally saying nothing.
Source: TED
Poster for a production of Irish playwright's Boucicault's farce Contempt of Court, c. 1879. Public Domain / Wikimedia
Audio
Your Brain on Storytelling
Storytelling can be a powerful tool to convey information, even in the world of science. It can also shift stereotypes about who scientists are. Listen to an interview with someone who knows all about this – Liz Neeley, the Executive Director of Story Collider, a nonprofit focused on telling “true, personal stories about science.”
Source: Short Wave