Literature Genres

Genres and sub genres of literature

Genre- A category, or way of classifying specific kinds of stories.

Most categories of books or stories can be called either fiction or non-fiction. a made up story can tell about things that could happen is read for fun characters may be like real people or imaginary Non-Fiction has facts that can be checked and proven the author is an expert on this information it IS TRUE!

When we break down genre, we consider the 5 main Large genres to be: Non-Fiction fiction folklore (folklore may contain elements of truth…) drama Poetry

Folklore includes stories that people told one another over the years and passed down Later the stories were written down.

Subgenres All Genres are broken down into more specific subgenres.

Subgenres of Fiction

Realistic Fiction Stories that could really happen. Contemporary realistic fiction is realistic fiction that is set in modern times.

Historical Fiction Stories that take place in a certain time and place in the past. Real historical figures and settings may be included in a fiction story.

Fantasy Fiction that has elements that are not real. Can include talking animals or characters with magical powers. Usually a conflict between good and evil.

Science Fiction -Science Fiction is made up of stories that blend fact and fiction with futuristic technology. -Set in future or involves alien worlds.

Mystery Stories that have a real setting A problem to be solved that includes clues, distractions, and an answer to the problem.

Adventure Characters (and the reader) can always expect the worst Lots of action and suspense. Roller coaster ride (usually needs to overcome MANY obstacles). Many obstacles will threaten the main character’s survival. Includes wilderness survival stories, and any stories where characters repeatedly overcome obstacles.

Subgenres of non-fiction

Informational/expository Informational books are nonfiction books that give true facts on a variety of subjects.

Tries to talk people into believing something. Persuasive Writing Tries to talk people into believing something.

Biography A biography is the true story of a real person’s life. It is written by someone who has studied that person’s life.

Autobiography -The true story of a person’s life written by the actual person who lived it.

Memoir A memoir is an account written by a person about their life. It is different from an autobiography because it will usually focus on a certain time period. -Different from diaries. Diaries are dated entries that follow a person’s daily life.

Subgenres of folklore

Fairy Tale Sometimes Special beginning and/or ending words - Once upon a time...and they lived happily ever after. Good character Evil character Magic happens Problem and a Solution USUALLY a happy ending

Tall-tale A tall tale is a story with unbelievable elements, that is always told as if it is fact. Uses hyperbole in it’s characters physical traits or abilities. Ex: Paul Bunyan’s height (as tall as the trees), Davey Crocket’s immense strength while wrestling alligators, etc. Paul Bunyan Clip https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4CNtcDj ywBA&list=PLqmXvCkPTir_FJLnxc6Rg5KTFcuk Zpspx

Fable A short story, typically with animals as characters, conveying (showing) a moral/lesson.

myth A story that was told in an ancient culture to explain a practice, belief, or natural occurrence. Typically includes beings with supernatural powers (such as Gods and Goddesses).

Legend Stories that cultural groups have passed from generation to generation that explain why things are the way they are, or how things came into existence. Were once accepted as truth by cultural groups. Are now regarded as fictional accounts that may have elements of truth.

Drama The Drama Genre has 2 sub-genres: Comedy- A dramatic work that is light and often humorous. Problems are usually resolved and the characters end up happy in the end. Tragedy- A drama or literary work in which the main character is brought to ruin or suffers extreme sorrow. He/She usually has a flaw that brings about this tragedy (i.e. jealousy, pride, etc)

Poetry Could be fiction or non-fiction Poetry is verse written to inspire thoughts and feelings in the reader. It often uses rhyme and rhythm, or it can be written in free verse.