Meaning: The quote "There is more to folklore research than fieldwork. This is why in all of my other upper-division courses I require a term paper involving original research" by Alan Dundes, an American folklorist and professor, encapsulates the broader scope and depth of folklore research beyond mere fieldwork. Dundes, a prominent figure in the field of folklore studies, emphasizes the importance of original research and scholarly inquiry in understanding and analyzing folklore.

Folklore, as a field of study, encompasses the traditional beliefs, customs, stories, and practices passed down within a community through oral tradition or customary behaviors. It is a rich and diverse area of inquiry that often requires more than just fieldwork to comprehensively explore and analyze. Dundes' assertion that there is more to folklore research than fieldwork highlights the multidimensional nature of this academic discipline.

In the context of folklore research, fieldwork typically involves gathering data and conducting interviews with individuals within a particular community to document and understand their folklore traditions. While fieldwork is undoubtedly crucial in collecting primary sources and firsthand accounts, Dundes suggests that it is not the sole or definitive method for comprehensive folklore research.

The quote also underscores Dundes' commitment to integrating original research into his upper-division courses. By requiring students to engage in term papers involving original research, Dundes emphasizes the significance of critical analysis, scholarly investigation, and the generation of new knowledge in the study of folklore. This approach encourages students to delve deeper into the subject matter, develop their research skills, and contribute to the ongoing scholarly discourse within the field of folklore studies.

Dundes' emphasis on original research aligns with the evolving nature of folklore as an academic discipline. While traditional folklore research often focused on the collection and preservation of oral traditions and cultural practices, contemporary scholarship in folklore increasingly emphasizes the critical analysis, interpretation, and contextualization of folklore within broader social, historical, and cultural frameworks.

Furthermore, Dundes' insistence on original research in upper-division courses reflects his belief in the importance of cultivating a scholarly mindset and instilling rigorous research practices in students. By engaging in original research, students are challenged to explore complex topics, develop their analytical skills, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge within the field of folklore studies.

In conclusion, Alan Dundes' quote serves as a poignant reminder of the multifaceted nature of folklore research and the significance of original research in advancing scholarly understanding within the field. By highlighting the broader scope of folklore research beyond fieldwork and advocating for original research in academic settings, Dundes underscores the depth, complexity, and ongoing relevance of folklore as a vibrant area of scholarly inquiry. His words continue to inspire a new generation of folklore scholars to explore, analyze, and contribute to the rich tapestry of human cultural expression encapsulated in folklore traditions.