Retelling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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retelling
[rɪˈtɛlɪŋ ]
Definition
story
A retelling is a new version of a story that has been told before, often with changes or additions to the original plot. It can involve reimagining characters, settings, or events to create a fresh perspective on the familiar tale.
Synonyms
adaptation, reimagining, reinterpretation.
Examples of usage
- He wrote a retelling of the classic fairy tale, adding modern twists to the storyline.
- The movie is a retelling of the historical event, focusing on different aspects of the story.
- She enjoys reading retellings of myths and legends, comparing the various interpretations.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
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.
Origin of 'retelling'
Main points about word origin
- 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.
The word 'retelling' originated from the verb 'retell,' which is a combination of 're-' meaning again and 'tell' meaning to narrate or recount. The concept of retelling stories has been a common practice throughout history, allowing people to share folklore, legends, and myths in new and creative ways.
See also: foretell, foretelling, tell, telling, telly.