1. Comparing Traditional and Modern Ballads

2. Here are some typical characteristics:
Checklist for Ballads
A ballad is a form of verse to be sung or recited and characterized by its presentation of a dramatic or exciting episode in simple narrative form.
Here are some typical characteristics:
Plot:
a single episode of highly dramatic nature is presented
the supernatural is likely to play an important part
the incidents are usually such as happen to common people (as opposed to nobility) and often have to do with domestic episodes
physical courage and love are frequent themes
Structure:
incremental repetition is common either in the body or the refrain
transitions are abrupt
often the ballad is brought to a close with some sort of summary stanza
rhyme scheme: stanzas with four lines and words at the end rhyming A B A B.
Narration:
slight attention is paid to characterization or description in a detached narration
Dialogue:
action is largely developed through dialogue with little clue as to who is speaking
Language:
tragic situations and sudden disasters are presented with the utmost simplicity using plain, simple language

3. Many modern writers have continued writing in the ballad form; poets use it to create certain effects, and songwriters (especially folk singer/songwriters) have continued the tradition of the oral ballad.
Read along on your handouts as you listen to the following modern ballads from America

4. The Ballad of Birmingham

5. The Ballad of Frankie and Johnny

6. The Ballad of Jessie James

7. Present your information in a chart for display
Your Task
Select one of the traditional ballads either from your handouts or from the textbook
AND
one of the modern ballads
1. Write a summary of the story for each of your two ballads
2. Analyze your two ballads using the Ballad Checklist, the handout on Medieval ballads, and information on your text.
3. Use your findings to compare and contrast the ballads
Present your information in a chart for display