A folklore essay is a type of academic writing that explores the folklore of a particular culture, group, or region. Folklore includes any traditional, orally-transmitted stories, songs, or sayings, as well as any related customs or beliefs. In a folklore essay, a scholar might examine the ways that a particular folktale is told in different regions, or how it has changed over time. Alternatively, a folklore essay might focus on a particular song or custom, and explore its meaning and significance. Folklore essays often make use of fieldwork, in which the scholar observes and records the folklore in its natural setting.