Myths, Folk Tales, Myths, Folk Tales, Legends and FablesLegends and Fables

Mrs. TurnerMrs. TurnerLiterature 7Literature 7

What are Myths, Folk Tales and What are Myths, Folk Tales and Fables?Fables?

• A myth is a story that usually explains something about the world and involves gods and other superhuman beings.

• Example: “Daedalus and Icarus”

• A folk tale/tall tale is a story with no known author. It is passed down from one generation to another by word of mouth. It features unrealistic events and people.

Example: Paul Bunyan

• A fable is a very brief story that teaches a moral or lesson about succeeding in life. It features animals that talk and act like humans.

• Example: “The Tortoise and the Hare”

• A legend is traditional story that is passed down from generation to generation. It is based on real events and people.

• Example: “King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table”

• Legends, myths, tall tales and fables are stories people use to communicate shared beliefs that explain their world.

Test Your KnowledgeTest Your Knowledge

• Which genre contains gods and or supernatural beings to explain the world?

• Which genre is based on realistic people and events?

• Which genre features talking animals that teach a moral?

• Which genre features unrealistic events and people?