Meaning: The quote by Alan Dundes, a prominent figure in the field of folklore studies, highlights the multifaceted nature of the work undertaken by folklorists. Dundes emphasizes that the role of folklorists is not limited to the mere collection of texts or narratives from a community or culture. Instead, they are tasked with the responsibility of gathering comprehensive data about the context in which these texts are situated, as well as information about the informants who contribute these narratives. Furthermore, Dundes underscores the importance of conducting a thorough analysis of the collected items, drawing upon the theoretical frameworks and methodological approaches outlined in the course readings and lecture materials on folklore theory and method.

Folklore, as an academic discipline, encompasses the study of expressive forms and traditions that are passed down through generations within a community or culture. These forms of expression can take various shapes, including folktales, myths, legends, proverbs, rituals, customs, and material culture. Folklorists seek to understand the significance of these expressions within their cultural contexts, as well as the functions they serve within the communities from which they originate.

In line with Dundes' statement, the work of folklorists involves a comprehensive approach to the collection, documentation, and analysis of folklore materials. When collecting texts, folklorists must pay attention to the broader context in which these narratives are shared. This includes understanding the cultural, social, and historical factors that shape the transmission and performance of folklore within a community. Additionally, gathering data about the informants who contribute these narratives is crucial for understanding the personal and communal perspectives that inform the creation and dissemination of folklore.

The process of writing an analysis of the collected items based on course readings and lecture material on folklore theory and method underscores the scholarly rigor and theoretical grounding that underpins the study of folklore. Folklorists draw upon established theoretical frameworks, such as structuralism, performance theory, and cultural poetics, to analyze the form, content, and function of folklore materials. Moreover, they apply methodological approaches such as fieldwork, ethnographic research, and textual analysis to interpret and contextualize the folklore within broader cultural dynamics.

Dundes' emphasis on the integration of course material into the analysis of folklore items underscores the importance of academic training and critical engagement with existing scholarship in the field. By synthesizing theoretical insights and methodological approaches from coursework with the empirical data collected in the field, folklorists are able to produce nuanced and insightful analyses of folklore materials. This integration also ensures that the study of folklore remains grounded in scholarly discourse and contributes to the ongoing development of folklore theory and methodology.

In conclusion, Alan Dundes' quote encapsulates the multifaceted nature of the work undertaken by folklorists. It underscores the comprehensive approach to collecting, documenting, and analyzing folklore materials, as well as the integration of theoretical and methodological insights into the scholarly analysis of these materials. By emphasizing the importance of context, informant data, and theoretical grounding, Dundes highlights the rigorous and scholarly nature of folklore studies.