Here's why:
* Origins in Oral Tradition: Folktales were originally passed down through generations by word of mouth. They were often embellished and changed with each telling.
* Symbolic and Moral Lessons: Folktales often convey important cultural values, beliefs, and moral lessons. They use allegory and symbolism to teach these lessons, rather than being based on real historical events.
* Magical Elements: Many folktales feature magical elements like talking animals, mythical creatures, or supernatural powers. These elements are clearly fictional.
* Archetypal Characters: Folktales often feature characters that represent common human experiences and archetypes, such as the hero, the villain, the trickster, or the wise old person.
While folktales might be inspired by real events or people, they are ultimately products of the imagination and storytelling.