Traditional Literature

Traditional Literature WCES 4TH Grade Dianne Bridges

ELACC4RL9 Compare and contrast the treatment of similar themes and topics (e.g., opposition of good and evil) and patterns of events (e.g., the quest) in stories, myths, and traditional literature from different cultures.

CHARACTERISTICS • Passed down from generation to generation • Fast paced plot • Good vs. Evil • Happy endings • Characters are either good or bad • Theme {lesson to be learned}

Types of Traditional Literature • Folktale • Fable • Fairytale • Myth • Legend • Tall Tale

Folktale A folktale is a short narrative passed down from generation to generation. Folktales include: Fairytales Fable Myths Legend Tall Tales

Fable A fable is a short narrative that teaches a moral lesson, often using talking animals. Example: The Lion and the Mouse

Fairytale A fairytale is an unbelievable tale involving magic. They usually begin with “Once upon a time” and end with “and they lived happily ever after.” It often uses the number 3. Example: The Three Little Pigs

Tall Tale A tall tale is a narrative than is based on exaggerations of larger than life characters. Example: John Henry

Legend A legend is a narrative whose main characters are based on historical figures. The story is embellished to teach a lesson. Exaggeration is usually involved. Example: The Legend of the Evergreen Tree

Myth A myth is an ancient story used to explain aspects of the natural world. They usually have gods and goddesses.

Traditional Literature