What are medieval folktales?

Medieval folktales are stories, originally transmitted orally, composed between the 5th and 15th centuries in Europe.

What are the seven types of medieval folktale?

The seven types of medieval folktale are: Animal Tales, Tales of Magic, Religious Tales, Realistic Tales, Tales of the Stupid Ogre, Anecdotes and Jokes, and Formula Tales.

What is an example of a famous folktale?

Cinderella is among the most famous folktales.

Why were folktales told?

Folktales were told for entertainment but also to encourage proper behavior, illustrate religious or moral principles, or explain some natural phenomenon such as why it rains, among other reasons.

Medieval Folklore

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Definition

Medieval folklore is a body of work, originally transmitted orally, which was composed between the 5th and 15th centuries in Europe. Although folktales are a common attribute of every civilization, and such stories were being told by cultures around the world during the medieval period, the phrase “medieval folklore” in the west almost always refers to European tales.

More about: Medieval Folklore

Timeline

476 CE - 1453 CE
The Medieval Period in which medieval folklore was composed, transmitted, and shared through trade.