Fable: meaning, definitions and examples

A fable is typically a short story that features animals as characters and is used to teach a moral or lesson. It is often simple and aimed at children.

• The tortoise and the hare is a well-known fable that teaches the value of persistence.
• In the fable, the fox tricks the crow to get the cheese.

A parable is a simple, succinct story used to illustrate a moral or spiritual lesson. It is often found in religious texts and teachings.

• Jesus often used parables to teach spiritual lessons, such as the Parable of the Good Samaritan.
• The parable of the prodigal son is about forgiveness and reconciliation.

An allegory is a narrative in which characters and events symbolize deeper truths and abstract ideas, often to convey moral, political, or spiritual messages. It can be more complex and is not necessarily for children.

• George Orwell's 'Animal Farm' is an allegory about the corrupting nature of power.
• In medieval literature, 'Everyman' is an allegory about the journey of life and death.

A short story that typically uses animals and contains a moral lesson.

• The fable of the tortoise and the hare teaches the value of perseverance
• In many fables, animals speak and act like humans

A traditional story that explains natural phenomena, cultural practices, or the origins of the world, often involving gods and supernatural beings.

• Greek myths often explain natural events like thunderstorms and earthquakes
• The myth of creation in many cultures tells how the world began

A traditional story or narrative about historical figures or events, often with exaggerated or fictional elements.

• The legend of King Arthur includes knights and magical elements
• Robin Hood is a legendary figure known for his acts of bravery