Folklore:

Fables

Folklore The term folklore is generally used to

refer to the traditional beliefs, customs, stories, songs, and dances of a culture.

Folklore can include fables, fairy tales, legends, myths, tall tales, and folk tales.

Fables A short tale used to teach a moral

lesson, often with animals as characters.

Most famous fables are Aesop’s Fables.

Fairy tale A fanciful tale of legendary deeds and

creatures, usually intended for children. Example: Cinderella or Dinorella

Legends A traditional tale handed down from

earlier times and believed to have an historical basis.

Example: Merlin and the Dragons

Myths A story that usually explains something

about the world and involves gods and other superhuman beings.

Example: Demeter and Persephone- The Origin of the Seasons

Tall Tale An extravagant, fanciful or greatly

exaggerated story. Usually focuses on the achievements of the ultimate hero.

Example: The Bunyans

Folktale A story or legend forming part of an oral

tradition.

Example: Oni and the Great Bird and Master Frog