1. Mythology and Folklore: These are arguably the oldest forms of storytelling. Myths and folktales often explore themes of creation, heroes, gods, and the natural world. Examples include the Greek myths, Norse mythology, and Native American folktales.
2. Epic Poetry: This genre emerged in ancient cultures, often recounting the deeds of heroes and gods in long, narrative poems. The Epic of Gilgamesh (Mesopotamia) and the Iliad and Odyssey (Greece) are among the most famous examples.
3. Religious Texts: Many religious texts, such as the Bible and the Quran, contain narratives that are both factual and fictional, often serving to teach moral lessons or illustrate religious concepts.
4. Drama: Ancient Greek theatre, particularly tragedy and comedy, emerged as a significant genre for fictional storytelling. These plays explored complex human relationships, moral dilemmas, and social issues.
5. Historical Narratives: While not always strictly fictional, historical narratives often incorporate fictional elements and characters to enhance their storytelling. The Histories of Herodotus and Thucydides are examples of early historical narratives.
6. Romance: Though the modern understanding of romance has evolved, early forms of romantic literature emerged in ancient times, often exploring themes of love, courtship, and adventure.
It's important to remember that these genres are not mutually exclusive and often overlap. The development of fictional storytelling has been a continuous process, with new genres evolving and old genres adapting over time.
Ultimately, the first significant genre is a matter of perspective. While mythology and folklore arguably predate all others, each of these genres played a critical role in shaping the evolution of storytelling.