Literature refers to the different forms of literary works. Literature includes some popular forms of written works. Different historical periods have emphasized various characteristics of literature. The most important forms of literature are fairy tales, folk tales, fables, myths and legends.
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Fairy tales are the most magical place for a child to go
exploring. Fairy tale offers a sufficiently wide variety of theme and
enchantment to whet the appetite of young readers.
You look for the touch of magic, a sense of enchantment, of some mysterious
force, which changes the ordinary into extraordinary.
Children love listening to
fairy tales. As many fairy elements as possible are included like promises,
wishes, transformations, a giant, a witch, elves and of course a fairy
godmother. We see heroes and heroines rise from unhappy and humble origins to
happiness and riches such as Cinderella, the poor, ill treated youngest daughter
goes to the ball and wins the love of a prince.
Examples: Jack and the Bean stalk, Beauty and the Beast, Snow white
and the Seven Dwarfs, and Cinderella.
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A legend is a story from the past about a subject that was, or
is believed to have been historical. A legend is usually a traditional tale with
a historical basis. Legends are usually very old stories with little or no
evidence to prove them. Legends are often passed on down the generation by word
of mouth. Legends can also be about historically famous people, places, art etc.
Example: Robin hood, Trojan War, Shakespeare's stories, King Arthur |
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Fables are instructive tables that teach morals about human
social behavior. Fables are short stories, which take abstract concepts such as
good or bad, wise or foolish, and try to make them concrete. Fables frequently
feature animals.
Example: Aesop's fables, and fables of
lafontaine. Fables like some myths, feature personified animals or natural
objects as characters. Fables almost end with an explicit moral message and this
highlights the characteristic features of fables. |
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