FableNarrative Writing

What is a Fable?

A fictitious story or tale that: features animals which are anthropomorphized (given human qualities)

Illustrates a moral lesson (a “moral”)

Usually expressed directly in a short statement

Formal Definition

Etymology

Comes from the Latin “fabula” – a story

Derived from “fari” – to speak“ula” suffix – little

“To speak a little story” (How cute)

Fable Authors

Known as a “fabulist”The word “fabulous” pertains to fables, but has come to mean “outstanding” or “excellent”

You are all about to become FABULOUS FABULISTS

Elements

Animal characters with human characteristics

A setting and situationA problem or dilemma, usually caused by a character trait or weakness

A resolutionA clear moral or lesson at the end of the story, usually directly stated

History

One of the most enduring art forms

Found in almost every country or culture

Aesop’s Fables are some of the most well known and are attributed to a Greek slave in 550 B.C.

Still used in modern times as a popular form of entertainment and moral questioning

Activity

Use the chart provided to brainstorm how Animal Farm fits each aspect of a Fable

Bullet Points are fineThen, read the fables provided with your table groups and choose two to complete using the chart.