Mythical Tales and TV: A Global Connection Through Storytelling

The Role of Folklore and Mythology in International TV Storytelling

Picture you’re watching a TV show, and suddenly, a tale you heard as a child comes to life on screen. It’s a story of gods, heroes, or mysterious creatures, woven seamlessly into the lives of relatable characters. Folklore and mythology have a way of connecting us to our roots, evoking wonder and curiosity, and grounding modern storytelling in timeless themes.

But how does this magic work? Why do so many international TV shows draw on folklore and mythology, and how does it captivate audiences worldwide? Let’s dive into the role of these ancient tales in shaping modern TV narratives.

Why Folklore and Mythology Matter in Storytelling

Folklore and mythology are more than just old stories; they’re cultural DNA. They capture the fears, hopes, and values of the people who told them. When these tales are reimagined in TV shows, they provide a rich, emotional layer that makes the narrative feel both universal and deeply personal.

Take Penny Dreadful, for example. This gothic series weaves together characters from European folklore and classic literature, like Frankenstein’s monster and Dorian Gray, to explore themes of morality, identity, and human nature. By blending these mythic figures into a new story, the show taps into the universal power of legends while offering fresh perspectives.

For viewers, the inclusion of mythology isn’t just entertaining; it’s a way to connect with something bigger than themselves. Whether it’s a familiar tale from childhood or a completely new myth, these stories resonate on a primal level.

Building Worlds with Folklore

One of the most exciting ways TV shows use folklore is to create immersive worlds. The mythology of a culture becomes the foundation for the rules, characters, and conflicts in the story.

Consider The Untamed, a Chinese drama based on the novel Mo Dao Zu Shi. The show is set in a world where clans practice cultivation, a form of spiritual and martial training inspired by Chinese folklore. Ghosts, spirits, and magical artifacts fill the narrative, making the world feel both mystical and authentic. As a viewer, you’re drawn into the beauty and danger of this folklore-inspired universe.

By grounding their stories in folklore, creators give audiences a sense of place and history. It’s not just a fictional world; it’s a world with roots, depth, and meaning.

Characters as Mythic Archetypes

Mythology provides a treasure trove of character archetypes; the hero, the trickster, the wise mentor, the femme fatale. These archetypes resonate because they reflect aspects of the human experience. When TV shows incorporate these archetypes, they tap into storytelling patterns that have endured for centuries.

Take Ragnarok, a Norwegian series that reimagines Norse mythology in a modern setting. The main character, Magne, is a reincarnation of Thor, complete with his moral dilemmas and a modern twist on the god’s legendary strength. The show uses the classic hero’s journey to explore contemporary issues like climate change and corporate greed, proving that ancient archetypes are as relevant today as ever.

As you watch, you can’t help but root for characters like Magne because their struggles to find courage, to face their enemies, to understand themselves feel so universal.

Tackling Universal Themes

At its heart, mythology is about universal themes: love, betrayal, sacrifice, revenge, and redemption. These themes transcend time and culture, which is why they’re so powerful in international TV storytelling.

In Legend of the Blue Sea, a South Korean drama, the story of a mermaid who falls in love with a human is rooted in traditional Korean folklore. But the themes of unrequited love, identity, and belonging are universal, which is why the show resonated with audiences worldwide. The fantastical elements of the story enhance these themes, making them even more poignant.

When you watch a show like this, you’re reminded that no matter where we come from, we all wrestle with the same questions and emotions.

Blending Tradition and Modernity

One of the challenges-and joys-of using folklore in TV is finding the balance between tradition and modernity. How do you honor ancient tales while making them relevant to today’s audience?

American Gods, based on Neil Gaiman’s novel, tackles this head-on. The series pits old gods from various mythologies-like Odin and Anansi-against new gods representing modern concepts like technology and media. The clash between old and new explores how mythology evolves in a changing world.

As a viewer, you’re left to ponder: What happens to tradition in the face of progress? How do we hold onto the stories that shaped us while embracing the future?

Emotional Connection Through Mythology

Mythology creates an emotional connection. When a show draws on folklore, it taps into the shared cultural memory of its audience. Even if the mythology is unfamiliar, the emotions it evokes are universal.

Take Mexica, a historical drama that delves into Aztec mythology and culture. The show immerses viewers in a world of gods, rituals, and prophecies, while also telling deeply human stories about love, power, and destiny. Even if you’ve never encountered Aztec mythology before, the emotional weight of the characters’ struggles pulls you in.

These emotional connections make mythology more than a plot device; they make it a bridge between cultures and generations.

Mythology as a Tool for Social Commentary

Folklore and mythology aren’t just about the past; they’re a lens for examining the present. Many TV shows use mythology to comment on contemporary issues, blending ancient wisdom with modern relevance.

In El Recluso, a Mexican series, the story of a modern prison heist is infused with references to Aztec and Mayan legends. These mythological elements aren’t just decorative; they add layers of meaning, inviting viewers to think about justice, morality, and power in new ways.

By reinterpreting mythology for today’s world, these shows encourage us to reflect on our own lives and societies.

Why Mythology Resonates Worldwide

So, why does mythology have such universal appeal? Because it’s about us. It’s about our fears, hopes, and dreams, told in a way that transcends time and culture. Whether you’re watching a show about Norse gods, Chinese spirits, or Korean mermaids, the emotions and themes feel universal.

These stories remind us that while the details of our myths may differ, the core of what makes us human is the same.

Ready to Dive Into Mythical TV?

The next time you watch a TV show inspired by folklore or mythology, take a moment to appreciate the depth and richness it brings to the story. These shows aren’t just about ancient tales; they’re about how those tales continue to shape our world.

Whether it’s the mystical world of The Untamed, the modern twist on Norse gods in Ragnarok, or the emotional depth of Legend of the Blue Sea, there’s something magical waiting for you. So grab your remote, pick a show, and let yourself be transported to a world where myths come alive.