Folk Tales in the Digital Age: New Perspectives on Storytelling and the Oral Tradition

In my thesis, I explore the transformative dynamics of storytelling across traditional and digital landscapes, emphasizing the progression from passive audience consumption to interactive engagement. I trace the evolution of storytelling from its oral traditions to its digitized forms in the modern era, underscoring the inherent human need to communicate experiences and cultural values through narrative. My research delves deep into the realm of digital storytelling, with a special focus on interactive storytelling, where audience participation fundamentally reshapes the narrative experience. The first chapter of my thesis retraces storytelling's historical journey, emphasizing its role in cultural preservation and moral education across various media—from oral traditions to digital platforms. Here, I set the stage for understanding storytelling as a fundamental human activity that transcends mediums and eras, yet continually adapts to technological advancements. In the second chapter, I explore both the theoretical and practical aspects of interactive storytelling. I examine how new digital tools and platforms have not only enhanced narrative techniques but also introduced complex challenges in narrative design and audience engagement. The discussion includes key theoretical frameworks from ludology and narratology, providing a comprehensive understanding of the complexities inherent in interactive narratives. Central to my thesis is the examination of how digital technologies facilitate a participatory culture, transforming audiences from passive receivers to active participants. I critically analyze this shift through the lens of interactive storytelling, where the audience's role transcends traditional boundaries, becoming co-creators of the narrative experience. For the case study, I examine a Kyrgyz folktale that has been adapted across different media, including movies and books. This analysis illustrates the narrative's versatility and its ability to resonate through varied cultural expressions, highlighting the dynamic interplay between traditional storytelling and modern adaptations. Additionally, my thesis includes a practical project created in Twine, an interactive storytelling platform. This project not only demonstrates the practical applications of the theories discussed but also showcases the potential of interactive narrative design to foster deeper audience interaction and engagement. It serves as both an illustration of theoretical concepts and an exploration of the capabilities of interactive storytelling. By weaving together theoretical insights, practical examples, and a detailed case study, my thesis aims to illuminate the profound impact of digital technology on storytelling. I seek to understand how these technological advancements have revolutionized narrative forms, making them more interactive, immersive, and participatory. The implications of these changes are discussed in terms of cultural practices, global communication, and the psychological impact on audiences. Ultimately, my research contributes to the broader discourse on digital media's role in evolving storytelling practices, offering a vision of how narratives might continue to develop in the future.