Folktale Motif Index

The Folktale Motif Index is a system used to categorize and index recurring themes, characters, and plot elements found in folktales from various cultures. Each motif, such as "the hero's journey" or "trickster character," is assigned a unique code, making it easier for researchers to find and compare stories across different traditions. This index helps in understanding the similarities and differences among folktales worldwide, revealing how cultures express common human experiences and values through storytelling. It serves as a valuable tool for scholars, writers, and anyone interested in folk narratives.