Retelling: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'retelling' combines 're-', meaning again, with 'telling', which comes from the Old English 'tellan', meaning to count or relate.
• The concept has been used since ancient times, with storytellers often sharing tales orally before writing them down.
• In literature, retelling has become a rich tradition, allowing old stories to be adapted into new forms through different cultural lenses.

Literature

• Many classic tales, like 'Cinderella' or 'Snow White', have numerous retellings across cultures, each adding unique twists and perspectives.
• Retellings often help modern audiences connect with themes or morals that are relevant to their contemporary lives.
• Authors like Gregory Maguire and Jeanine Cummins have popularized retellings, offering fresh viewpoints through alternate narratives.

Psychology

• Retelling stories can aid memory retention, as telling them over and over helps reinforce details and emotions.
• The process of retelling can also enhance empathy, as individuals consider different perspectives and feelings involved in the story.
• Some studies suggest that storytelling, including retelling, can be therapeutic, giving people a way to process their experiences.

Pop Culture

• In film and television, retelling popular stories has become a trend, often giving traditional tales a modern twist, like 'Once Upon a Time' or 'Into the Woods'.
• Retelling familiar stories in different genres, such as horror or comedy, can attract diverse audiences and inspire creativity.
• Social media platforms are now places where people retell stories through memes, skits, or short videos, showcasing personal and collective experiences.

Education

• In classrooms, students are often asked to retell stories to improve their comprehension and narrative skills.
• Retelling exercises can foster critical thinking, as students analyze elements of plot, character, and setting.
• Teachers might encourage retellings to make literature more engaging and to connect students' lives with the text being studied.

Positioned at #23,875, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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