Ballad: Definition, Examples, and Characteristics

Ballad: Definition, Examples, and Characteristics Definition of Ballad A ballad is a form of narrative verse that can be either poetic or musical. As a literary device, it typically consists of a series of four-line stanzas. Ballads were originally part of an oral tradition in rural societies and were often anonymous retellings of local legends and stories by wandering minstrels during the Middle Ages. Traditional or "folk" ballads, as well as literary ballads created intentionally by poets, exist. Examples of Subject Matter Found in Ballads Tragic romance Reimagination of legends Religion, life, and death Recounting historical events The supernatural Happy love stories Honor of warriors/soldiers Despair of poverty Personal stories Archetypal stories Examples of Ballads in Popular Music Ballads can be found in various music genres, including rock, soul, country, and heavy metal. Here are some examples of ballads in popular music: Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door (Bob Dylan) Yesterday (The Beatles) P…
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