Folklore, Fear, and the Viral “Man vs. Bear” Debate

What do fairy tales, survival instincts, and a viral social media debate have in common? In this episode of Lexicons Unbound, we unpack the question that took over timelines: Would you rather be alone in the woods with a man or a bear?

We explore the bear as a powerful symbol in folklore—protector, predator, and primal force—and examine how it connects to modern conversations about women’s safety, autonomy, and survival instincts. From Goldilocks and Winnie the Pooh to viral memes, we trace how stories shape our perceptions of danger and trust.

Along the way, we discuss:
Why the bear (and other large predators) looms large in folklore and cultural imagination
How gender dynamics and survival strategies have evolved

How women today reclaim storytelling to challenge old tropes

This isn’t just about bears—it’s about the enduring stories we tell to navigate fear, find power, and rewrite the narratives handed down to us.

Whether you’re a folklore enthusiast, a meme scholar, or just curious why the internet keeps asking about bears, this episode is for you.

Resources and Links: Episode blog + transcripts on Podpage

This short intro episode is your invitation into our world—a podcast where folklore meets your algorithm.

We’re Melanie (writer, performer, and digital folklore translator) and Molly (researcher and professor specializing in storytelling and culture), two educators and lifelong story nerds who can’t stop asking:

What old patterns hide in the stories we tell today?
Why do viral memes feel like modern myths?
And how is folklore alive in the feeds we scroll every day?

In this episode, you’ll get to know who we are, why we started this show, and what you can expect:
Deep dives into modern folklore and digital culture
Mini episodes with quick folklore reflections and curiosities
Smart, accessible conversations

If you’ve ever wandered down a folklore rabbit hole, secretly love origin stories, or can’t resist saying “Actually, did you know…”—this podcast is for you.

Subscribe now and join us as we unpack viral fairy tales, TikTok trends, meme cycles, and the timeless stories hiding in plain sight.

Find transcripts, links, and extras at: https://www.podpage.com/lexicons-unbound/

What do TikTok hauntings, monster memes, and bedtime stories have in common? They’re all part of the folklore that lives in our feeds. This is just the beginning—subscribe now and join us for stories that surprise, unsettle, and connect us.