What is a Folktale A folktale is a

What is a Folktale? • A folktale is a story that has been passed down from generation to generation by word of mouth or verbal tradition. • Folktales were created to pass on traditions, morals, and lessons from one generation to the next.

Types of Folktales • Trickster Tales • Fables • Pourgoui Stories • Fairytales

Trickster Tales • A trickster in a story is a character whoa story about a trickster, or someone who is clever and tricks other characters in the story. • This character usually causes problems for other characters. • Example: Aansi the Spider, Stone Soup

Fables • These are stories that usually teach a lesson or has a moral. • Example: The Tortoise and the Hare or Aesop’s Fables.

Pourquoi Stories • A Pourquoi (means “why” in French) is a folktale which explains how or Why something is the way it is. • Explains HOW something came to be as it is. • Many myths and tales are considered pourquoi stories. • Example: Why Mosquitoes Buzz in People’s Ears: A West African Tale by Verna Aardema

Fairytales • Usually begins with the words, “Once Up a Time” • Story has good and evil characters • Usually ontains magic, a hero or heroine • Conflicts are revolved through kindness, courage or intelligenc • Examples: Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, Aladdin, etc.

Common Folktale Story Elements • Magic is often used to explain the unexplainable • The number three is often used • Three characters • Three events • Three tests

Common Story Elements • Characters undergo tests to prove something • Good vs. evil • Good characters are rewarded and evil ones are punished • Magic is usually used. • Contains a happy ending

Themes Characters undergo tests to prove something. Good characters vs. evil characters The good characters are rewarded and the evil characters are punished. The story usually has a happy ending.