1. Myths, Folk Tales, Legends and Fables Mrs. Turner Literature 7

2. What are Myths, Folk Tales and Fables? A myth is a story that usually explains something about the world and involves gods and other superhuman beings. Example: “Daedalus and Icarus”

3. 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

4. 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”

5. 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”

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

7. Test 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?