How Narrative Shapes Culture and Society: A Socio-Narratology of Power and Influence

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James E. Siburt

How Narrative Shapes Culture and Society

A Socio-Narratology of Power and Influence

James E. Siburt

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Hardback

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English

Rowman & Littlefield Publishers
11 December 2025

Sociology: customs & traditions; Social & cultural anthropology

This book analyzes how everyday storytelling operates as a subtle yet powerful mode of influence, shaping identity, belief systems, and leadership across diverse cultural contexts. Bridging literary theory, cultural studies, and leadership practice, it offers an interdisciplinary examination of myths, fairy tales, parables, and trickster narratives to uncover the mechanisms through which stories embed and transmit power. With critical insight into the ideological and affective force of narrative, James E. Siburt reveals how even the most ordinary stories sustain social norms, seed collective values, and mirror the deep structures of human desire and meaning-making.

By: James E. Siburt
Imprint: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers
Country of Publication: United States
Dimensions: Height: 229mm, Width: 152mm,
ISBN: 9781666927085
ISBN 10: 1666927082
Pages: 144
Publication Date: 11 December 2025
Audience: College/higher education , Further / Higher Education
Format: Hardback
Publisher's Status: Active

Preface Introduction Chapter One: The Practice of Story Chapter Two: Myths: Stories of Origin Chapter Three: Fairy Tales: Influencing Social Practices Chapter Four: The Other in Fairy Tales Chapter Five: A Strange Parable Chapter Six: Trickster: The Unexpected Leader Chapter Seven: Interpellating Desire Conclusion References Index About the Author

James E. Siburt is associate professor of sociology of leadership and the Director of Graduate Leadership at Immaculata University.

Reviews for How Narrative Shapes Culture and Society: A Socio-Narratology of Power and Influence

James Siburt describes and engages with the topics of story, myth, and fairy tales in a very personal and invitational style. This book draws the reader into the powers of storytelling, the Other, and in particular the concept of the trickster found in many origin tales and legends. A delightful read all around! * Bradford Lee Eden, Tolkien scholar and medieval musicologist; Editor, Journal of Tolkien Research *