Tradition (complete video)
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Tradition: Roles in Society
This story brings to mind the opening scenes of "Fiddler on the Roof" where we're reintroduced to Tevye the dairyman and the character of the Fiddler. It establishes the central tension in the story between tradition and change. The video in this segment includes the traditional roles of men, women, and children in the fictional town of Anatevka. Use this story as a trigger to talk about traditional occupations and stereotypes in the small Russian village of Anatevka. What do we recall about our childhood memories of adulthood? What can we remember about the roles of men and women in our family stories? How have roles, especially gender roles, changed?
The Character of the Fiddler (video)
This story recalls the figure of the Fiddler in the opening and closing scenes of the film, setting up the idea that our existence is precarious, like a Fiddler on the roof, many decisions we make in life -- what to do, whom to marry, how to raise children, and so forth -- are very difficult and consequential.
The Story of Fiddler on the Roof
The narrative in this story helps participants recall the basic plot of "Fiddler on the Roof." We're reintroduced to Tevye the dairyman and the character of the Fiddler himself. Then we meet Tevye's daughters who are all seeking partners. And we remember, experiencing a wide range of emotions, as each daughter struggles to find their way as individuals, respecting more (or less) the norms and expectations of their family and community.
It ends with the song called "Anatevka" sung by villagers as they pack their things and leave their village and traditions behind.
Featured story idea
West Side Story was an acclaimed and popular Broadway musical in 1959 and then Hollywood film in 1961. Based on the story of Romeo and Juliette, it is the story of an ill-fated and impossible love between Tony and Maria whose families and communities are at war with each other.
