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.
“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.
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