What are authors doing when they change the original details of a story to reflect their own culture while still retaining theme?

When authors change the original details of a story to reflect their own culture while retaining the theme, they are engaging in a process called cultural adaptation. This is a common practice in storytelling, particularly when adapting classic works or folktales for modern audiences.

Here's a breakdown of what's happening:

1. Retaining the Theme:

* The core message or central idea of the original story remains intact. This ensures the adapted version still conveys the intended emotional impact and carries the same universal relevance.

* For example, a story about overcoming adversity might be retold with modern settings and characters, but the core message of resilience and perseverance would remain.

2. Reflecting the Author's Culture:

* The author infuses the story with elements of their own cultural background. This could involve:

* Setting: Changing the location, time period, and social context to match the author's own experience.

* Characters: Creating characters that are representative of their own culture, with familiar traditions, values, and ways of life.

* Language: Using language and dialect that is specific to their cultural background.

* Symbols: Employing symbols and imagery that hold significance within their culture.

Why Authors Do This:

* Relevance: Making the story more relatable and engaging for the author's intended audience.

* Personal Expression: Giving the author a platform to share their own cultural perspective and contribute to a diverse literary landscape.

* New Interpretations: Offering a fresh perspective on timeless themes, exploring them within a different cultural context.

Examples:

* Shakespearean adaptations: Modern interpretations of Shakespeare's plays often shift the setting and characters to contemporary contexts while retaining the core themes of love, betrayal, ambition, etc.

* Folktale retellings: Authors may adapt traditional folktales, setting them in their own cultural context and incorporating elements of their own folklore, while maintaining the original themes of good vs. evil, bravery, and justice.

Important Considerations:

* Respect: It's crucial for authors to approach cultural adaptation with sensitivity and respect for the original source material and the culture they are drawing upon.

* Authenticity: The author should strive to portray the new cultural context authentically, avoiding stereotypes or misrepresentations.

In essence, cultural adaptation allows authors to bridge the gap between different cultures while preserving the power and relevance of timeless stories.