Here are some key characteristics of fables:
* Animals or inanimate objects as characters: These characters often represent human qualities or behaviors.
* Moral lesson: Fables aim to teach a lesson about life, morality, or ethics. This lesson is usually stated explicitly at the end of the story, but it can also be implied.
* Simple plot and setting: The plot is often straightforward and the setting is usually generic.
* Short and concise: Fables are typically brief and to the point.
* Traditional oral form: Fables have often been passed down orally through generations, making them a part of cultural folklore.
Examples of famous fables include:
* The Tortoise and the Hare: Teaches the importance of perseverance and slow and steady progress.
* The Lion and the Mouse: Illustrates the idea that even the smallest of creatures can have an impact.
* The Boy Who Cried Wolf: Emphasizes the dangers of lying and the importance of truthfulness.
Fables are a valuable tool for teaching life lessons and have been used for centuries to impart wisdom and moral values to children and adults alike.