1st Edition

Myth as Disorientation for Critical Intercultural Pedagogy From the Kalevala to the Realm of (Digital) Imagination

By Fred Dervin Copyright 2026
138 Pages 16 B/W Illustrations
by Routledge

138 Pages 16 B/W Illustrations
by Routledge

138 Pages 16 B/W Illustrations
by Routledge

This book presents a game-changing approach to critical intercultural pedagogy by reclaiming myth as a stimulating tool for deliberate and productive disorientation. Moving beyond archaic relics or simple deconstruction, the author argues that myths, from the Finnish Kalevala to student-created (digital) narratives, are dynamic forces for both epistemic resistance and renaissance today. Readers... Read more

1. A different beginning  2. The Kalevala revisited: Theorising and problematising myths for intercultural pedagogy  3. Classroom practice: Chinese Minzu myths of love and friendship  4. Student-created myths: New narratives for interculturality?  5. Myth as a method: Disorientation and renewal in intercultural pedagogy

 

Biography

For over 25 years, Fred Dervin has contributed to redefining intercultural communication, education and research. The University of Helsinki scholar challenges conventional paradigms with interdisciplinary insight, inspiring scholars, practitioners and students to critically rethink and creatively reshape interculturality for our complex worlds. A defining characteristic of his 300+ publications is his commitment to the continuous re-examination of his own work.