Aarne-Thompson classification system

The Aarne-Thompson Classification System is a method for categorizing folktales and fairy tales based on their narrative elements and motifs. Developed by Finnish folklorist Antti Aarne and later expanded by Stith Thompson, the system assigns numbers to different types of stories, such as "Cinderella" or "Jack and the Beanstalk." This helps scholars and researchers identify themes, compare tales across cultures, and understand storytelling traditions worldwide. By organizing stories into a systematic framework, it provides insights into the common patterns and structures that shape human narratives throughout history.