Aarne-Thompson

The Aarne-Thompson folkloristic classification is a system used by scholars to organize and categorize stories, fairy tales, and folk narratives based on their plot patterns and themes. Essentially, it groups similar stories from different cultures by identifying common story structures and motifs. For example, tales involving a hero’s quest or a clever animal are placed into specific categories. This system helps researchers compare stories worldwide, understand storytelling traditions, and identify cultural similarities and differences in folklore. Developed in the early 20th century, it remains a foundational tool in folklore studies.