Meaning: Alan Dundes, an American folklorist and educator, was known for his significant contributions to the study of folklore. The quote provided emphasizes the comprehensive nature of Dundes's folklore courses, particularly the importance of fieldwork, bibliography, library research, and publishing research. Dundes's emphasis on these aspects reflects his commitment to providing students with a well-rounded understanding of folklore and the necessary skills to engage in scholarly research and publication.

In this quote, Dundes underscores the value of taking a holistic approach to the study of folklore. By offering a series of courses that cover various aspects of the field, including graduate seminars, he aims to equip students with a diverse skill set that encompasses both theoretical knowledge and practical research skills. Dundes's mention of fieldwork highlights the significance of firsthand observation and documentation of folklore in its natural context. This emphasis on fieldwork aligns with the anthropological approach to folklore studies, which emphasizes the importance of ethnographic research and the collection of primary data from cultural communities.

Furthermore, Dundes's reference to bibliography and library research underscores the importance of understanding the existing body of scholarly work in folklore and related disciplines. By familiarizing students with bibliographic resources and research methods, Dundes seeks to cultivate their ability to critically engage with existing literature and build upon previous research. This aspect of the quote also reflects the interdisciplinary nature of folklore studies, which often requires scholars to draw from a wide range of academic sources and methodologies.

Moreover, Dundes's emphasis on the publication of research highlights the significance of contributing to the academic discourse and sharing findings with the broader scholarly community. By guiding students on how to effectively communicate their research findings through publication, Dundes seeks to instill in them a sense of scholarly responsibility and the ability to disseminate their work to a wider audience. This focus on publication also reflects Dundes's own prolific career as a researcher and author, as he was known for his numerous publications and scholarly contributions to the field of folklore studies.

Overall, Dundes's quote encapsulates his pedagogical approach, which prioritizes a comprehensive and practical understanding of folklore. By integrating elements of fieldwork, bibliography, library research, and publication into his courses, Dundes aims to prepare students to engage with folklore as both a scholarly pursuit and a living cultural phenomenon. His emphasis on these foundational aspects of folklore studies reflects his commitment to nurturing well-rounded scholars who are equipped to conduct rigorous research and contribute meaningfully to the field.