népmondák

Népmondák are a genre of Hungarian folklore, specifically short, anecdotal narratives that often explain local landmarks, historical events, or curious phenomena. The term translates roughly to "people's tales" or "folk legends." These stories are typically rooted in a specific place or community and passed down through oral tradition.

Unlike myths, which often deal with creation or divine beings, népmondák are usually more grounded in human experience, even if supernatural elements are present. They can feature historical figures, local heroes, or even ordinary villagers whose actions or encounters have become the subject of legend. Common themes include the origin of a specific rock formation, the reason for a curse on a particular house, or the story behind a local festival.

These tales often serve to preserve local history and identity, giving meaning to the landscape and the past. They can also carry moral lessons or cautionary advice. While many népmondák have been collected and documented by folklorists, they continue to exist in the living memory of communities, adapting and evolving with each retelling. The genre provides valuable insight into the cultural beliefs, anxieties, and imaginations of the Hungarian people.