Richard Dorson

Richard Dorson was a prominent American folklorist known for his significant contributions to the study of folklore and oral traditions. He helped establish folklore as a legitimate academic field in the mid-20th century, focusing on the collection and analysis of folk tales, songs, and customs from various cultures. Dorson emphasized the importance of understanding folklore in its social context, exploring how these cultural expressions reflect the values and beliefs of communities. His work laid the groundwork for the modern study of folklore and its relevance to understanding human culture and creativity.