The field of Folklore Studies is focused on research involving the various aspects of Folklore. The most basic way to understand this is that the folklorist studies the traditional artifacts of a group. They study the groups, within which these customs, traditions and beliefs are transmitted. This research is then used to describe, compare, interpret and explore different traditions of Folklore. Folklore studies falls more broadly under the larger field of study known as humanities which study human society and culture.

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​Folklore Studies contributes to society by furthering the understanding and knowledge of local, regional, and even national culture. ​Folklore Studies and its place in academia has had a big effect on our modern understanding of and importance for Fairies in Ireland. This knowledge has helped to explain the importance of the fairy at a cultural level going back millennia.