Literary Genres

Fiction Narrative literary works produced by the imagination and not necessarily based on facts. Example: “The Most Dangerous Game”

Drama Stories composed in verse or prose, usually for theatrical performance, where conflicts and emotion are expressed through dialogue and action. Examples: “Romeo and Juliet”

Fable Narration demonstrating a useful truth, especially in which animals speak as humans. Examples: “Tortoise and the Hare”

Fantasy Fiction with strange or other worldly settings or characters and demands suspension of disbelief. Example: Avatar, Star Wars

Horror Fiction which evokes a feeling of dread in the characters and the reader. Example: Halloween

Humor Fiction full of fun, fancy, and excitement, meant to entertain. Can be used in all genres. Example: Kung Fu Panda

Mythology Legend, often based on historical events, that reveals human behavior. Often dealing with the actions of the gods. Example: Clash of the Titans

Nonfiction Informational text dealing with an actual, real-life subject. Example: Swing Your Sword by Mike Leach

Biography/Autobiography Narrative of a person’s life. A (mostly) true story about a real person. Example: My Life by Bill Clinton

Essay A short composition reflecting the author’s outlook or point of view. Example: “Character Essay over ‘The Most Dangerous Game’”

Speech Public address or discourse. Example: “I Have a Dream” speech by Martin Luther King