Historical Tales

Historical tales are similar to entertaining tales because historical tales are still a tradition - a custom or belief that is passed down through the generations or that is done time after time or year after year. However, historical tales such as myths, legends, and wisdom literature are all part of a people group's history. Therefore, historical tales were often thought to be based on fact and used to explain something that occurred in history.   View the different types of traditional tales below:

View the video below for more information and examples of Historical Tales:

Historical Tales Self-Assessment

Practice your understanding of historical tales below:

Myths

Unknown Authors

Myths have been passed down orally, so there is no way of determining the original authors. Myths often explain how a supernatural phenomenon occurs; a myth might explain why the sun sets or why the rain falls. Various cultures have their own myths to explain the unexplainable. For example, Greek and African mythology have differing stories regarding creation. Even the Native American have their own creation myths, and you will learn more about Native American mythology in American Literature. Recall that the Coyote often appears as a "trickster" throughout history, so remember that trouble lurks around the corner whenever Coyote is close.

Click here to read four myths from different time periods and parts of the world. Links to an external site. As you read, note what the myth attempts to explain to the reader.

Legends

Unknown Authors

Similar to myths, most legends have been passed down orally, so there is no way of determining who the original authors are. Although many people do not wholly accept legends as factual, legends were generally accepted as truth by certain people groups which is why they are called 'Historical' Tales. Legends occurred within the time period of the people who started the legends and demonstrate human values of the particular time period. Many legends come from the time of chivalry and surround the stories of King Arthur (who may have never existed) and his court.

Click here to read the legend of King Arthur. Links to an external site.

As you read, note the realistic factors in the legend and why people might accept the story as truth.

Proverbs

A "Proverb" is a short saying that is often a piece of advice. Similar to other historical stories, people generally accept Proverbs as truth and instruction on how to be a kind person and live wisely.   Proverbs differ depending on culture, and there are various types of Proverbs that exist as collections throughout the ages. Biblical Proverbs appear as a collection in the Holy Bible, but other Proverbs such as Chinese Proverbs, French Proverbs, Latin Proverbs, and Socratic Proverbs also teach people how to live properly.

Click here to read some of the different Proverbs. Links to an external site. As you read, note any similarities among the themes of the Proverbs.  

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