The Meaning of Myths, Folklore, Legends, and Fairy Tales
The terms myth, folklore, legend, and fairy tale are often used interchangeably, leading to the misconception that they mean the same thing: fanciful tales. Although it’s true that these terms may refer to bodies of writing that answer some basic questions or present commentary on morality, each type presents a distinct reader experience.
Myth
A traditional story that may answer life’s overarching questions
- Sometimes sacred in nature, a myth can involve gods or other creatures
- Many cultures have their own versions of common myths that contain archetypal images and themes
- Myth criticism is used to analyze these threads in literature
Fairy Tale
A fairy tale may involve fairies, giants, dragons, elves, goblins, dwarves, and other fanciful and fantastic forces.
- Although originally not written for children, in the most recent century, many old fairy tales have been “Disneyfied” to be less sinister and to appeal to kids.
Folklore and Folktale
Whereas myth has at its core the origins of a people and is often sacred, folklore is a collection of fictional tales about people or animals.
- Folktales describe how the main character copes with the events of everyday life, and the tale may involve crisis or conflict.
Legend
A legend is a story that’s purported to be historical in nature but that is without substantiation.
- Legend also refers to anything that inspires a body of stories or anything of lasting importance or fame. The story is handed down orally but continues to evolve with time.
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