Fairy Tales Common Elements

FAIRY TALES A fairy tale is a fictional story that may feature folkloric characters (fairies, goblins, elves, trolls, witches, giants, and talking animals) and enchantments, often involving a far-fetched sequence of events. The term is also used to describe something blessed with unusual happiness, as in “fairy tale ending” or “fairy tale romance,” though not all fairy tales end happily.

FAIRY TALES Fairy tales are a separate genre in literature. They have their roots in the oral tradition. Fairy tales with very similar plots, characters. And motifs are found spread across many different cultures. Fairy tales also tend to take on the color of their location, through the choice of motifs, the style in which they are told, and the depiction of character and local culture.

Common Elements

“Once upon a time…” Fairy tales usually start with “once upon a time” and are mostly in a faraway land and a long time ago. They usually, but not always, end with “happily ever after.”

Royalty Fairy tales always have someone of royal or noble blood. These can include Kings, Queens, Princes, and Princesses. They will often include very poor people or peasants.

Animals Animals in fairy tales often have magical abilities and have a pivotal role in the story.

Enchanted Forest Setting is usually an enchanted forest, a castle or a kingdom.

Magic One character is usually gifted with magical powers. They can be either good or evil.

Good vs. Evil Innocent, good characters are subjected to misfortune and evil misdoings. Evil and powerful antagonists fight against good.

Number Patterns Look for patterns using 3, 5, 6, 7and 12.

Lesson or Moral Sometimes a fairy tale can teach a lesson. They can touch on universal themes such gender roles, family issues, coming of age, good over evil.

Common Elements “Once Upon a Time…” Royalty/Poverty Animals Enchanted Forest Magic/Magical Person Good vs. Evil Number Patterns “Happily Ever After” Lesson or Moral

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