Literary

Genres~ a kind of literary or artistic work

Literary Genres are divided into two

categories:

•Fiction

•Nonfiction

Fiction Genre

Stories that are not based entirely upon facts.

DramaStories that are written with a lot of conflict and emotion. Often dramas are written specifically for theatrical performances.

FableStories that are a supernatural tale. These stories usually teach a lesson or tell of a truth. Often times in a fable, animals will speak as humans.

Fairy TaleStories about magical creatures usually written for children.

FantasyFiction stories that are written with strange settings and/or characters. These stories challenge reality.

FictionStories that are written through imagination and which are not based on facts.

FolkloreStories, songs, myths, or proverbs that are handed down from generation to generation usually by word of mouth

Historical FictionStories with fictional events and characters that take place in a historical setting.

HorrorFiction stories that are written to fill the reader with dread and fear.

HumorFiction stories that are full of fun and excitement. These stories are meant to entertain the reader. Humor can be contained in all genres.

LegendStories that have a basis and can contain some facts, but also include imaginative material.

MysteryFiction stories that deal with solving a mystery or a crime. It can also be a story in which secrets are unraveled.

MythologyStories that are often based on historical events in which human behavior and natural phenomena are explained through symbolism. Often these are pertaining to the actions of gods.

PoetryVerse and rhythmic writing with imagery that creates emotional responses.

Realistic FictionFiction stories that can actually happen and are true to life.

Science FictionFiction stories that are based on actual or imagined science and usually take place on other planets or in the future.

Short StoryStories that are very short and contain no subplots.

Tall TaleHumorous stories with many exaggerations and heroes who do the impossible with little effort.

Nonfiction GenreStories that are true.

BiographyA story about a person’s life or a true story about a real person. A biography is written by another person about another person.

AutobiographyStories that are written about a person’s life or a true story written about a real person. Autobiographies are written by the person the story is about.

EssayA short composition that reflects the author’s outlook or point of view on a topic.

Narrative NonfictionFactual information told in the form of a story.

NonfictionInformation dealing with an actual, real life story.

SpeechA public address